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Water bear, SEM C016 / 9084
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Water bear, SEM C016 / 9084
Water bear (Echiniscus granulatus). Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) showing the underside of a water bear, or tardigrade (phylum Tardigrada). Water bears are small, water-dwelling, segmented micro-animals with eight legs that live in damp habitats such as moss or lichen. They are classed as extremophiles as they can survive dry conditions by changing into a desiccated state, in which they can remain for many years. Whilst in this form (known as a tun) they can withstand the most extreme environments and can tolerate radiation levels as high as x1000 more than other animals, including humans. They have even been brought back alive after spending 10 days in the vacuum of space. Magnification: x100, when printed at 10 centimetres
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Media ID 9246217
© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Claw Claws Colored Cryptobiotic Drought Resistant Electron Microscope Extremophile Extremophiles Feet Legs Limb Limbs Meiofauna Micro Organism Micro Organisms Microbiology Microorganism Microorganisms Moss Piglet Mouth Tardigrada Tardigrade Tardigrades Underneath Underside Water Bear Microbiological Waterbear
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the incredible world of micro-animals, specifically the water bear or tardigrade (Echiniscus granulatus). In this coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM), we get a rare glimpse of the underside of this fascinating creature. Water bears are small segmented organisms with eight legs that reside in moist environments like moss and lichen. What sets them apart is their ability to survive extreme conditions by entering a desiccated state known as a tun. In this form, they can endure harsh environments for extended periods, even tolerating radiation levels up to 1000 times higher than other animals. The resilience of these tiny creatures is truly remarkable. They have been found alive after spending ten days in the vacuum of space, further highlighting their extraordinary adaptability. This makes them extremophiles - organisms capable of thriving in extreme conditions. At a magnification of x100 when printed at 10 centimetres, every intricate detail becomes visible: from their limbs and claws to their single mouth and head structure. The vibrant colours bring out the beauty within this microscopic realm. This print serves as a reminder that there is so much more to discover beyond what our naked eyes can see. It unveils the wonders hidden within nature's smallest inhabitants and leaves us marveling at their survival strategies and unique capabilities.
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