Microworms
| Panagrellus redivivus | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Observation of Panagrellus redivivus on a Zeiss microscope stage | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Nematoda |
| Class: | Secernentea |
| Order: | Rhabditida |
| Family: | Panagrolaimidae |
| Genus: | Panagrellus |
| Species: | P. redivivus |
| Binomial name | |
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Panagrellus redivivus L. |
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The free-living nematode Panagrellus redivivus (sour paste nematode) is known to many aquarium enthusiasts and fishkeepers as the microworm. It is a tiny roundworm used as the first food for minuscule newly hatched fish, such as the popular pet fish betta. The microworm is widely used in aquaculture as food for a variety of fish and crustacean species.
The microworm is about 50 μm in diameter and just over 1 mm in length, barely visible to the naked eye. It is easily cultured at home on a substrate of flour or porridge.
The microworm has been used in genetic analysis studies, but not nearly as universally as its relative, Caenorhabditis elegans.
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Wikipedia