The nematodes (/ˈnɛmətoʊdz/ NEM-ə-tohdz or NEEM-; Greek: Νηματώδη; Latin: Nematoda), roundworms or eelworms constitute the phylum Nematoda.[3][4] They are a diverse animal phylum inhabiting a broad range of environments. Nematodes are microscopic worms in the microcosmos. They are taxonomically classified along with arthropods, tardigrades and other moulting animals in the clade Ecdysozoa. Unlike the vaguely similar flatworms, nematodes have a tubular digestive system, with openings at both ends