This document provides information about nematodes, including their: 1) Classification within the kingdom Animalia and phylum Nemathelminthes. 2) General characteristics such as size, shape, presence of a buccal capsule and teeth. 3) Life cycle which involves 4 larval stages and 1 adult form, and usually requires a single host like humans. 4) Modes of infection such as ingestion, skin penetration, or transmission by blood-sucking insects.