Saartel

Saartel is a genus of nematode worms in the phylum Aschelminthes. The genus was first described by Riemann, a German anthelmintologist, in 1886. Nematomorpha is the class to which Saartel belongs and consists of various species of parasitic worms that inhabit aquatic environments. These worms have a body morphology characterized by being long, slender, and thread-like, which is thought to be an adaptation for obliterating oxygen levels in their immediate surroundings.

Saartel species are commonly found in fresh and brackish water environments such as lakes, rivers, and streams. Some species have been known to infect darters and shads of the fish family during their aquatic phase. Their life cycles typically involve a free-living stage in aquatic environments before infecting a fish host.

The parasite's habit of inhabiting the alimentary canal, specifically the intestines and the rectum of fish hosts, is characteristic of nematomorphan worms. Parasitized fish usually exhibit symptoms such as poor nutrient uptake, derangement in their nitrogen and sulfur metabolism, and subsequent physical and behavioral changes.

Another notable habit of Saartel species is their occurrence in coarse screens and physical filters used for preventing fish parasites and other macro-organisms from passing through. This is due to these nematode worms clustering collectively together as water passes over the sieve.

A few Saartel species have been considered paratenic, meaning that the parasitic infection they infect in host organisms occurs outside their host body. The socio-economic impact of certain Saartel species on fish populations has been a topic of scientific examinations.