Nematodes (Nematoda) parasitic in terrestrial gastropods.

Abstract

Notes on the evolution, systematics and diversity of Rhabditidae, Alloionematidae, Angiostomatidae, Cosmocercidae, Alaninematidae, Agfidae, Diplogasteridae and Mermithidae are presented. The nematode pest, host, site of infection in the host and geographic range of the parasite are tabulated. The life cycle of nematodes parasitic in gastropods (larval and adult parasitism), the occurrence and importance of nematodes in gastropod populations (effects of parasitism by one species and interactions between nematodes), and the use of Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita as a biological control agent (including its host range, mass production and formulation, field efficacy, environmental impact and commercial status and prospects) are described.