Weird Worms: Horsehair Worm and the Grasshopper Nematode

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Information Courtesy of Colorado State University

Weird Worms: Horsehair Worm and the Grasshopper Nematode

by W. Cranshaw¹

Quick Facts...

• Horsehair worms and the grasshopper nematode parasite, Mermis nigrescens, are both harmless to humans.
• Moist conditions are favorable to the development of Mermis nigrescens and highest populations develop in relatively wet, grassy areas.
• With very few exceptions, horsehair worms will only be found in water.
• The common name ‘horsehair worm’ is derived from its occasional occurrence in livestock water troughs.
  

Two unusual, very long ‘worms’ that are occasionally encountered are horsehair worms and the nematode parasite of grasshoppers, Mermis nigrescens. Both are harmless to humans but may attract attention and cause concern. more