Indian Nematodes

Nematodes are roundworms and have a cylindrical body. They do not have a segmented body like earthworms or tapeworms.

Dracunculus medinensis, commonly known as the Guinea worm, is the largest nematode found in India. It can grow up to 1 meter in length.

Wuchereria bancrofti is a nematode that causes lymphatic filariasis, a disease that affects the lymphatic system and can lead to elephantiasis.

Ascaris lumbricoides is a nematode that causes intestinal roundworm infection, a common parasitic infection that can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition.

Ancylostoma duodenale is a nematode that causes hookworm infection, a parasitic infection that can lead to anemia, malnutrition, and stunted growth.

Strongyloides stercoralis is a nematode that causes strongyloidiasis, a parasitic infection that can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and respiratory problems.

Trichuris trichiura is a nematode that causes whipworm infection, a parasitic infection that can lead to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal prolapse.

Enterobius vermicularis is a nematode that causes pinworm infection, a common parasitic infection that can lead to anal itching, sleep disturbances, and irritability.

Wuchereria bancrofti is a nematode that causes filariasis, a parasitic infection that can lead to elephantiasis, a condition characterized by swelling of the legs, arms, and genitals.

Loa loa is a nematode that causes loiasis, a parasitic infection that can lead to swelling of the eyes, joints, and skin.

Onchocerca volvulus is a nematode that causes onchocerciasis, a parasitic infection that can lead to blindness, skin problems, and disfigurement.

Dracunculus medinensis is a nematode that causes dracunculiasis, a parasitic infection that can lead to painful swelling and ulceration of the skin.

Anisakis simplex is a nematode that causes anisakiasis, a parasitic infection that can occur when raw or undercooked fish containing the larvae is consumed.

Gnathostoma spinigerum is a nematode that causes gnathostomiasis, a parasitic infection that can occur when raw or undercooked fish or poultry containing the larvae is consumed.

Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a nematode that causes angiostrongyliasis, a parasitic infection that can occur when raw or undercooked snails or slugs containing the larvae are consumed.