Course: Identification of terrestrial and freshwater nematodes

Nematode communities are widely used as indicators in ecological and environmental research, but correct interpretation depends on accurate identification and ecological context. This advanced training course is designed for professionals working in ecology, environmental monitoring and soil research who need reliable, morphology-based identification skills.

The course focuses on routine identification of terrestrial and freshwater nematodes, combining taxonomy with ecological and applied perspectives. Participants learn to identify both adult and juvenile nematodes and to analyse nematode communities using mass-slide techniques commonly applied in environmental studies.

In addition to identification, the course addresses sampling strategies, extraction methods, functional groups, food web analysis and the calculation of relevant ecological indices. Teaching alternates between microscopy sessions and lectures by experienced nematode ecologists with complementary expertise.

The course builds on more than 25 years of teaching experience and reflects the growing role of nematodes as tools in environmental assessment and applied ecological research. 

The course is organised by Dr Gerard Korthals. Lectures are given by leading soil and nematode ecologists, including Prof. Wim van der Putten, Dr Ron de Goede, Ir Leendert Molendijk and Dr Hans Helder.

• Dates: 31 August – 11 September 2026
• Participants: Maximum 10 
  (If six participants or fewer register, the course may be postponed by one year.)
• Fee: €3,000 
  (Includes coffee/tea, literature, reprints and manuals; accommodation not included.)

Travel and accommodation:
Travel information from Schiphol Airport and accommodation options in Wageningen are available on request from Lisette Groeneveld-Vervloed.