Guía #12: Soil Sentinels

What is the typical size range of nematodes?

• 0.1-0.3 mm

• 2-5 mm

• 0.4-1 mm

• 1-2 mm

Answer explanation

Nematodes typically range in size from 0.4 to 1 mm, making this the correct choice. Other options either underestimate or overestimate their size.

¿En qué entornos pueden prosperar los nematodos?

• En casi todos los hábitats

• Solo en bosques

• Solo en praderas

• Solo en ambientes acuáticos

Answer explanation

Nematodes are highly adaptable and can thrive in almost all habitats, including soil, freshwater, and marine environments. This versatility allows them to occupy diverse ecological niches.

What percentage of the true number of nematode species has been identified?

• 1%

• 5%

• 10%

• 20%

Answer explanation

Only about 5% of the estimated nematode species have been identified, highlighting the vast diversity that remains unclassified. This makes 5% the correct answer.

¿Qué estructura utilizan los nematodos que se alimentan de raíces para alimentarse?

• Un sifón

• Una mandíbula

• Un estilete

• Un probóscide

Answer explanation

Root-feeding nematodes use a stylet, a needle-like structure, to pierce plant cells and extract nutrients. This specialized feeding apparatus distinguishes them from other feeding mechanisms like siphons or proboscises.

What is a common behavior observed in predatory nematodes?

• They only feed on plants

• They do not have teeth

• They practice cannibalism

• They live in isolation

Answer explanation

Predatory nematodes are known to practice cannibalism, often feeding on other nematodes. This behavior helps them thrive in their environments, unlike the other options which do not accurately describe their feeding habits.

¿Qué papel juegan los nematodos en los ecosistemas del suelo?

• Descomponen materia orgánica

• Son productores primarios

• Son depredadores tope

• Solo compiten con otros organismos

Answer explanation

Nematodes play a crucial role in soil ecosystems by decomposing organic matter, which helps recycle nutrients and maintain soil health. They are not primary producers or top predators, nor do they solely compete with other organisms.

¿Cuál es el enfoque principal de la colaboración de investigación entre CEH y el Instituto Macaulay?

• Examinar los niveles de pH del suelo

• Investigar la biodiversidad durante la colonización de plantas

• Analizar los hábitos de alimentación de los nematodos

• Estudiar la reproducción de los nematodos

Answer explanation

The research collaboration between CEH and the Macaulay Institute primarily focuses on investigating biodiversity during plant colonization, highlighting the ecological interactions that occur as plants establish in new environments.

How do nematodes respond to environmental changes?

• They become dormant

• They quickly alter community composition

• They migrate to other areas

• They change their feeding habits

Answer explanation

Nematodes respond to environmental changes by quickly altering community composition, adapting their interactions and roles within ecosystems to maintain balance and resilience.

¿Cuál es la estructura de alimentación de los nematodos que consumen hongos?

• Un pico afilado

• Un aparato delicado

• Una parte bucal tubular

• Un estilete

Answer explanation

Nematodes that consume fungi possess a delicate apparatus, which allows them to penetrate fungal tissues and extract nutrients effectively. This structure is specialized for their feeding habits.

What is the estimated number of nematode species identified worldwide?

• 12,000

• 10,000

• 15,000

• 5,000

Answer explanation

The estimated number of nematode species identified worldwide is around 12,000. This figure reflects extensive research and classification efforts in the field of nematology.