What are microscopic worms that may feed on trees and carry diseases called?

Microscopic worms that may feed on trees and carry diseases are referred to as nematodes. These parasites are unsegmented roundworms, typically found in soil and aquatic environments, and some species have a significant impact on plant health. Nematodes can attack various parts of trees, including the roots, causing damage that can lead to stunted growth, wilting, and even tree death.

Nematodes can also act as vectors for certain plant pathogens, facilitating the spread of diseases. This dual role as both a pest and a carrier of disease makes them a critical concern in arboriculture and tree care.

Although protozoa, bacteria, and fungi can also be involved in tree health and disease dynamics, they differ fundamentally from nematodes in structure and their specific interactions with trees. Protozoa are single-celled organisms, bacteria are unicellular microorganisms that can be both beneficial and harmful, and fungi primarily consist of filamentous structures. These groups do not include the worm-like characteristics that define nematodes, making them an entirely separate category of organisms that interact with trees in unique ways.