Subtilassa

Subtilassa is a genus of small, free-living marine nematodes. These worms are found in various marine environments, often inhabiting the sediment of coastal areas and deeper ocean floors. They belong to the order Enoplida and are characterized by their slender, often translucent bodies. The name "subtilassa" itself hints at their delicate and subtle nature, reflecting their often inconspicuous presence in benthic ecosystems.

Members of the genus Subtilassa are typically characterized by specific morphological features, including the structure of their amphids and the arrangement of their sensory organs. Their feeding habits generally involve consuming bacteria and microalgae present in the surrounding sediment. As such, they play a role in the microbial loop of marine food webs, contributing to nutrient cycling. The study of Subtilassa contributes to our understanding of nematode diversity and the ecological dynamics of marine meiofauna, the small invertebrates that live in between sediment grains. Research on this genus often involves detailed microscopic examination and molecular techniques to identify and classify different species. Their precise ecological impact can vary depending on the specific species and the marine environment they inhabit.