Nematodes in Soil Systems

Dear Colleagues,

Nematodes represent a highly diverse group of microscopic organisms. Due to their key position in the soil food web, they are useful indicators of soil quality and soil health. The nematode community structure sensitively reflects environmental changes. Plant-parasitic and free-living nematodes interact with the plant and the microbiome in soil. Nematodes influence the root morphology and exudation, and thereby indirectly modulate the microbiome of the rhizosphere. This probably influences the productivity and health of the plant in an as-of-yet underestimated way. Depending on the species, nematodes may transport specific microorganisms, graze on particular microbes, control the balance between bacteria and fungi, provide food for higher-level predators, or may themselves be food for bacteria and fungi. Fungivorous nematodes eventually reduce phytopathogenic or mycotoxin-producing fungi. Microvorous nematodes feeding on bacteria or fungi contribute to nutrient mineralization. Excreted excess nitrogen can significantly contribute to the nutrient supply of plants. Omnivorous, predatory, and entomopathogenic nematodes can be beneficial as natural enemies of other soil organisms. In agroecosystems, the knowledge-based management of soil biomes will lead to a more sustainably productive agriculture that requires fewer inputs of diminishing resources.

We invite authors to submit current research that provides new insights into the ecology and molecular biology of the interactions between nematodes, plants, their symbionts, and other soil organisms. We also expect submissions on the ecological links between above- and below-ground, and the trophic cascade across plants, microbes, nematodes, and other fauna. In particular, we welcome authors to report recent findings on the role of microbial communities in shaping nematode communities or populations. This includes studies on the microbiomes of various life stages of nematodes, and how the microbiome affects nematodes. We are interested in how nematode communities or their associated microbes are influenced by soil parameters, plants, or anthropogenic activity in agroecosystems, managed forests, or more natural terrestrial ecosystems.

Dr. Holger Heuer
Prof. Johannes Hallmann
Dr. Amir Szitenberg
Dr. Andreas Westphal
Dr. Bing Yang
Dr. Danny Coyne
Dr. Mette Vestergård
Dr. Sylvia Schleker
Dr. Stefan Schrader
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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