Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: Phys.Org
Context: Researchers have identified a new species of nematode, called Steinernema adamsi, that could be used to control crop pests in warm, humid regions.
- These nematodes belong to the Steinernema family, known for their use in agriculture to combat insect parasites without pesticides.
- The nematodes are efficient insect killers, with the ability to rapidly multiply in the soil after infecting their hosts.
Named after American biologist Byron Adams, this new species has been described as nearly invisible to the naked eye and just under 1 millimetre long
About Nematodes:
Nematodes are microscopic, roundworms that are one of the most common life forms on Earth. They are also known as roundworms or eelworms and are part of the phylum Nematoda.
Nematodes are found on every continent, including deserts, swamps, oceans, the tropics, and Antarctica. Most species are free-living and feed on microorganisms, but many are parasitic. Parasitic worms can cause soil-transmitted helminthiases.
