3 Reasons Why Tardigrades Are ‘Supernatural’ (Spoiler - They Can Survive In Space)

3 Reasons Why Tardigrades Are ‘Supernatural’ (Spoiler: They Can Survive In Space)

Tardigrades, also known as water bears or moss piglets, are tiny, eight-legged micro-animals that are found in water environments across the globe. Despite their small size, they have gained a reputation for being one of the most resilient creatures on Earth, capable of surviving conditions that would be lethal to almost any other living being. In this article, we will explore three reasons why tardigrades are considered “supernatural” and how their ability to survive in space has captured the imagination of scientists and the general public alike.

Reason 1: Tardigrades Can Survive Extreme Pressure

One of the most impressive features of tardigrades is their ability to withstand extreme pressure. They can survive at depths of up to 6,000 meters, which is equivalent to the pressure experienced by a diver at a depth of over 2 miles. This is made possible by their ability to contract their bodies and seal off their internal organs, protecting themselves from the crushing force of the water pressure. In comparison, humans can only survive at depths of up to 20 meters without specialized equipment.

Reason 2: Tardigrades Can Survive Extreme Temperatures

Tardigrades are also capable of surviving extreme temperatures, ranging from near absolute zero (-273°C) to well above the boiling point of water (100°C). They can even survive in environments where the temperature fluctuates rapidly, such as in hot springs or cold deserts. This ability is due to their slow metabolism, which allows them to conserve energy and withstand conditions that would be lethal to other organisms.

Reason 3: Tardigrades Can Survive in Space

Perhaps the most remarkable feature of tardigrades, however, is their ability to survive in space. In 2007, a group of tardigrades were sent to orbit the Earth on a European Space Agency mission, and they successfully survived the harsh conditions of space for 12 days. This was not a one-time fluke, either - subsequent studies have confirmed that tardigrades can indeed survive in space for extended periods of time.

The mechanism behind this incredible ability is still not fully understood, but scientists believe that tardigrades’ ability to dry out and enter a state of dormancy may play a role. In this state, their metabolism slows down, allowing them to conserve energy and survive without water or food for extended periods. When they are rehydrated, they can quickly revive and resume their normal functions.

Implications of Tardigrades’ Supernatural Abilities

The implications of tardigrades’ supernatural abilities are far-reaching and have sparked significant interest in the scientific community. For example, studying tardigrades has helped scientists to better understand how life might survive on other planets or moons with extreme conditions. This knowledge can inform the search for extraterrestrial life and guide the development of strategies for protecting human explorers from harsh environmental conditions.

Furthermore, tardigrades’ ability to survive in space has raised questions about the possibility of interstellar travel. If tiny animals like tardigrades can survive the harsh conditions of space, might it be possible for humans to do the same? While this idea is still purely speculative, it highlights the potential for discoveries in the field of space exploration and the importance of continued research into the natural world.

Conclusion

Tardigrades are tiny, but their supernatural abilities have captured the imagination of scientists and the general public alike. Their ability to survive extreme pressure, temperature fluctuations, and even space travel has raised important questions about the potential for life beyond Earth and the limits of human exploration. As we continue to study these remarkable creatures, we may uncover even more surprising secrets about their biology and the natural world - and who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll be able to harness their powers for ourselves and explore the galaxy like never before.