Here's why:
* They don't live in or on other organisms. Vinegar eels are free-living nematodes that thrive in environments like vinegar, unpasteurized apple cider, and sometimes even in damp environments like flower pots.
* They feed on bacteria and other microscopic organisms. They are actually beneficial in vinegar production, as they consume the bacteria that could cause spoilage.
* They pose no threat to humans. While they may look unpleasant, they are harmless to humans and don't cause any infections or diseases.
While they may seem like parasites due to their appearance and environment, they are actually just tiny, harmless creatures that play a role in the ecosystem.