This key helps the user identify 30 genera of plant parasitic and plant associated nematodes most commonly found in temperate agriculture. Unlike printed dichotomous keys, this key allows the user to choose characters in any order they wish. Images and notes are attached to characters and nematode genera for explanation and differentiation of morphologically close genera.

The key is designed for female specimens but in some cases males will key out correctly (this is obviously not so for genera with a large degree of sexual dimorphism such as Meloidogyne), as will some juveniles.

To view images and notes associated with characters, states and genera click once on the "i" buttons to their left. Some images have a macro associated with them which briefly takes control of the cursor to point out areas of interest. To run these macros just click on the button at the top left of the image.

To select a state which matches that of your specimen drag it from the "Characters available" box to the "Character states chosen" box. Those taxa which do not possess this state will be shifted to the "Discarded taxa" box. For more detailed help look at the help menu.