Ben Hanelt

   Currently I am an instructor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Louisiana State University. In 2002, I received my Ph.D. under the astute direction of Dr. John Janovy Jr. from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln.

   I am working on elucidating the life cycle, life history and general biology of freshwater nematormorphs (Phylum: Nematomorpha). These worms are otherwise known as gordian worms, from the Greek myth of antiquity, or horsehair worms due to their unusual shape. These worms are found throughout the world and have been reported from the majority of US states. To find out more about gordian worms, please follow the link provided to the left.

   SENDING WORMS: If you find gordiids and would like to send them to me, I would be eternally grateful. I am especially interested in receiving live worms to continue my life cycle studies. Here is how to send them: put worms (with a bit of tap water (a cup or so)) into a very sturdy bottle. If you don't have one, a baby bottle with a tight fitting lid, or a smaller water bottle work very well. Put this container in an envelope and send it to me by regular US mail. These worms are very hardy and ship easily (alive, or dead).
   My present address is:

          Ben Hanelt
          220 Life Sciences Building
          Department of Biological Sciences
          Louisiana State University
          Baton Rouge, LA 70803-1715

   Or e-mail me at bhanelt@lsu.edu or call me at (225) 578-5525.

   I will be happy to reimburse you for all of the materials, and the
shipping charges. I will of course also let you know what these worms are, and give you some more information about their biology.