Scientists uncover nematodes' surface chemistry, showing lipid coatings aid survival, hydration, and interactions.

They transmit plant diseases, like root-knot nematodes. Steinernema feltiae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora are great examples. Meloidogyne spp. (root-knot nematodes) and Pratylenchus spp.

People love the taste of sugar beets' primary byproduct: white sugar. Soilborne cyst nematodes—parasitic, microscopic worms—enjoy the root vegetable, too, but as their sole food source.

Dr. Adler Dillman, professor of parasitology and the Chair of the Department of Nematology at the University of California ...