Sheath nematodes retain the exuviae as they molt and have long, slender stylets. Spiral nematodes are slender and hold the body in a spiral shape at rest. Sting nematodes are long and slender, females have blunt tails and have an elongate stylet. Stubby root nematodes taper at both ends and have curved stylets. Stunt nematodes are cylindrical and taper slightly at each rounded end.
Much experience is needed to identify nematodes under a microscope.
Rootknot nematode eggs are laid in a mass of brown jelly. Other nematodes lay their eggs separately. Nematodes are found throughout the southeastern United States on turf grasses but are usually more troublesome on sandy soils. Nematodes are found on most turfgrass species. Some species may cause severe damage.