Microscopic hair-like worms that live in the soil and feed on plant roots are

Microscopic hair-like worms that live in the soil and feed on plant roots are

• A. Nematodes
• B. Aphids
• C. Mites
• D. Larvae

Answer: (A)

The main idea is recognizing plant-parasitic nematodes as tiny, wormlike organisms that live in soil and feed on plant roots. Nematodes are microscopic roundworms that inhabit the soil and some species attach to or invade root tissues, stealing nutrients and disturbing root cells. This feeding impairs the plant’s ability to take up water and minerals, leading to symptoms like poor growth and yellowing. Aphids are larger insects that feed on sap from leaves and stems, not roots. Mites are tiny arachnids that typically affect foliage or stored materials rather than root systems. Larvae are immature stages of insects and aren’t the microscopic, soil dwelling root feeders described here. So the description points to nematodes.

The main idea is recognizing plant-parasitic nematodes as tiny, wormlike organisms that live in soil and feed on plant roots. Nematodes are microscopic roundworms that inhabit the soil and some species attach to or invade root tissues, stealing nutrients and disturbing root cells. This feeding impairs the plant’s ability to take up water and minerals, leading to symptoms like poor growth and yellowing. Aphids are larger insects that feed on sap from leaves and stems, not roots. Mites are tiny arachnids that typically affect foliage or stored materials rather than root systems. Larvae are immature stages of insects and aren’t the microscopic, soil dwelling root feeders described here. So the description points to nematodes.