Nematodes that feed completely by entering the plant root are known as what?

Nematodes classified as endoparasites are those that penetrate and feed from within the host organism, specifically the plant roots in this context. These nematodes enter the root tissue, where they establish a feeding site, ultimately gaining access to the plant's internal nutrients. This feeding behavior can have significant implications for plant health, as it can lead to root damage, nutrient depletion, and the introduction of plant pathogens, which may affect overall plant vigor and yield.

Endoparasitic nematodes differ substantially from exoparasites, which feed on external plant parts without invading the plant tissue. Understanding these distinctions is critical in horticulture and plant management practices, as controlling endoparasitic nematodes often requires different strategies than those used for exoparasitic species or predatory nematodes, which primarily prey on other nematodes rather than feeding on plant tissue.