KAUSHIK KUMAR DAS, CHAITRA G. BHAT, GOURAV BENIWAL AND VINOD KUMAR
Abstract
Nematodes, with their diverse species and wide-ranging characteristics, have emerged as indispensable biological models across various scientific disciplines. Especially, the rhabditid clade of nematodes which exhibit diverse trophic lifestyles and ecological adaptations have been explored as research models. Caenorhabditis species, in particular, have provided fundamental insights into developmental biology, neurobiology, aging, and disease mechanisms. Other rhabditids such as Pristionchus pacificus, with its complex mouth morphology and interaction with beetles, offer insights into evolutionary biology and symbiosis. Panagrellus redivivus and Turbatrix aceti have significance in the food industry and as a complementary model to C. elegans. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), such as Steinernema and Heterorhabditis species, provide a model system for understanding host-pathogen interactions, and mutualism as well as have practical applications in biocontrol. Several animal-parasitic rhabditids facilitate parasitology and pharmacology studies. Overall, nematodes serve as powerful models for elucidating biological processes, offering valuable insights and implications for research advancements in genetics, development, ecology, and evolution.