What are nematodes commonly known as?

• A. Soil enhancers
• B. Lawn pests
• C. Beneficial insects
• D. Crop protectors

Answer: (B)

Nematodes are commonly known as lawn pests due to their role in affecting turf health and plant vitality. While many nematodes play beneficial roles in the ecosystem, such as breaking down organic matter and aiding in nutrient cycling, some species are harmful and can cause significant damage to lawns, gardens, and crops by feeding on plant roots and tissues. This association with negative effects on lawn health categorizes them primarily as pests in the context of plant care and maintenance.

The other classifications, such as "soil enhancers" or "crop protectors," may refer to the beneficial nematodes that assist in controlling pest populations or improving soil health through organic processes, but those do not capture the broader and more common perception of nematodes in casual horticultural discussions. Thus, identifying them as lawn pests reflects the dual nature of nematodes, highlighting both their potential for damage in residential and commercial landscapes.