Ecology of the dorylaimid omnivore genera Aporcelaimellus, Eudorylaimus and Mesodorylaimus

Eudorylaimus, Aporcelaimellus and Mesodorylaimus are dominant members of the omnivorous nematode fauna in Florida, USA. Ecological studies that included numerical data on these genera were reviewed to determine key aspects of their ecology and behaviour. These three genera were also the dominant omnivores in many parts of Europe and often occurred together. Multiple species within genera may be present in samples as well. Although results varied with habitat, these omnivores were present in nearly all stages of succession but often reached their greatest numbers in later stages of succession such as old-growth forests. They also showed remarkable adaptation to extreme environments, including Antarctic habitats, dune sands and temperate sites without vegetation. They were found in a variety of soil types but limited by soil pH < 4.0. Compared with other nematode taxa, they were among the genera most sensitive to moisture levels in sandy soils and to pollution by heavy metals. Some reports also indicated adverse impacts from inorganic fertilisers and other agrichemicals. Much remains unknown about the ecology of these common nematodes, which are widely distributed in soil ecosystems.