Lip region plain, rounded, unstriated. Amphid apertures transverse, near base of lip region. Cephalic framework obscure. Spear 13u long, slender, with small round knobs. Dorsal esophageal gland outlet 11u behind spear. Median bulb an outstanding feature, elongate-fusiform with relatively small valve and weak radial musculature.
Clavilenchus similis is distinguished from C. tumidus by finer striae, larger spear and ellipsoid median bulb.
Recorded by Thorne: In an apple orchard, 4 miles south of Watertown, South Dakota.