Lateral fields marked by 4 incisures. Anterior end tapering to rounded lip region which is smooth or marked by excessively fine striae, apparently 5 in number. Spear about 25u long with massive, slightly cupped knobs. Dorsal esophageal gland outlet about 10u behind spear. Tail digitate in varying degrees, with 5 to 7 ventral annules. Phasmids 3 to 6 annules anterior to anus.
Helicotylenchus glissus is distinctive because of its almost unstriated lip region, variable digitate terminus, distance of esophageal gland outlet from spear base and monosexuality.