In the lab, they are typically fed:
* E. coli OP50: This is a specific strain of *Escherichia coli* bacteria that is a safe and nutritious food source for C. elegans. The bacteria are grown on agar plates and then provided to the worms.
In the wild, they are thought to feed on:
* Bacteria: C. elegans are scavengers and are likely to feed on a variety of bacteria found in decaying matter.
* Fungi: They may also consume some fungal spores or hyphae.
* Yeast: In some environments, they might encounter and consume yeast.
Important Note: C. elegans do not have teeth or mouths. Instead, they use their pharynx, a muscular structure in their throat, to suck in bacteria and other small food particles.