In order to understand the distribution of soil nematodes in cold waterlogged paddy soil of the southern region, an investigation was conducted from 2011 to 2012 on the characteristics of soil nematode communities in cold waterlogged paddy soils of 8 provinces (Hubei, Anhui, Jiangxi, Hunan, Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong and Guizhou). The results showed that a total of 2 classes, 8 orders, 24 families, and 55 genera of nematodes were identified in all cold waterlogged paddy soils. Hirschmanniella and Filenchus were the dominant genera which accounted for 46.36% of the total individuals. Cephalobus, Eucephalobus, Aphelenchoides, Filenchus and Hirschmanniella existed in all provinces. The nematode individual density of cold waterlogged paddy soil accounted for 48.04% of non-cold waterlogged paddy soil and varied from 72 to 735 individuals/100g dry soil. The nematode individual density of cold waterlogged paddy soil was affected by soil moisture and electronic conductivity. Hirschmanniella was positively correlated with soil moisture and negatively correlated with electronic conductivity.