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Water bears are some of the toughest microorganisms on the planet. As
we’ll soon discover, it takes a lot to destroy them. Also called
tardigrades and moss piglets, scientists are still learning more and
more about them every day, and it could mean big things in the future.
Better understanding the water bears’ resilience and nigh-superpowers
could help scientists develop new technologies. Ready to go swimming
with these tubby and adorable little creatures? Here are some Awesome
Facts About Water Bears That Will Blow Your Mind.
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They have 8 legs with 4 to 8 claws attached to each and were originally
named "kleiner Wasserbär," meaning little water bear.
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They've been around for a long time...600
million years to be exact. That makes them significantly older than the
dinosaurs that first appeared 230 million years ago.
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Food is not exactly a major requirement for water bears. If it wants to,
it can go without a good meal for over a decade.
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Water bears can survive water pressure six times greater than the ocean
floor and can live through being boiled in alcohol.
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They can virtually live in any environment. Astronauts released them in
space unprotected for weeks and they survived.
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They can endure high doses of radiation. Scientists exposed them to 1000
times the radiation it takes to kill a human for them to finally die.
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The superpower that allows them to withstand pretty much anything is
called "Cryptobiosis." They can shut down their metabolism to .01
percent and practically play dead, making them almost indestructible.
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Because of their ability to withstand high level of radiation,
scientists have begun using their protective protein to help guard
humans from radiation.
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Though small, they are quite dangerous and deadly for their size. They
have sharp, dagger-like teeth that they use to attack their prey.
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Not only can they defend against heavy radiation, they can repair their
damaged DNA after being exposed to it. |