Mermithidae (entomopathogens)
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Mermithidae (entomopathogens)
This family contains several hundred species of long and thin nematodes which are parasitic to invertebrates, mainly insects and other arthropods. Several species are of interest as biological control agents of pest insects. For example, Romanomermis culicivorax is a parasite of mosquitoes, and Mermis nigrescens is a parasite of locusts and grasshoppers. The species usually parasitize all stages of its host insect and infections are typically fatal. Epizootics have been described from insect groups like mosquitoes or grasshoppers.
The species of Mermithidae are characterized by their extreme length (up to 50 cm) and a smooth cuticle. The head has 4 submedian and 2 lateral papillae. An anus is absent and adults probably do not feed.
The following genera are currently entered in the system:
