Image courtesy of Harikumar R. Suma
and Sandeep M. Eswarappa, fair use doctrine,
Joel Kontinen
Tardigrates are mystery to
evolution, they came forth in the Cambrian Explosion and
as one of the first living fossils, they are still living with us. .
Though small, tardigrates are known for their toughness.
“Scientists have discovered
yet another reason to be impressed with tardigrades; some of these microscopic, nearly indestructible
creatures wear a glowing "shield" that protects them from ultraviolet radiation.
tardigrates Tubby tardigrades — also called moss piglets or water bears — are known for
their toughness, able to withstand extreme heat, cold and pressure, as well as
the vacuum of space. They can also survive exposure to levels of radiation that would kill many other life-forms.
The Scientists Tested Paramacrobiotus tardigrades' UV resistance by
exposing them to 15 minutes of radiation at levels high enough to kill most
microorganisms. All of the Paramacrobiotus tardigrades
were still alive 30 days later, while Hypsibius exemplaris tardigrades
that were UV-sensitive all died within 24 hours of radiation exposure,
according to the study.”
The tardigrade’s traits speak of
a Designer a who skilfully
made every living creature.
Source:
Weisberger, Mindy . 2020, Adorable tardigrades fight UV rays . Live Science I6 October
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