TARDIGRADES by ALIHEA MAE S. MAGPURI

''Water-soluble proteins'' specific to tardigrades, known as tardigrade disordered protein, or TDPs, protect its cells from damage. TDP molecules form a strong, glasslike cocoon around cells as tardigrades eject their body's water. TARDIGRADE is also known as a ''water bear'' or a ''moss'' piglet. Tardigrades are eight-legged micro-animals that are one of a kind. Micro-animals are extremely small animals that require the use of a microscope to view. Tardigrate algae and flowering plants in the past. The ability of tardigrades to withstand intense cold and desiccation is their most outstanding feature. They can survive in a tun for decades without food or water, and they are the first mammal to have survived in space. Tardigrades have a size of about 1mm (0.04inch) or less. They can be found in water film on lichens and mosses, as well as sand, silt, leaf litter, and other materials. TARDIGRADE can survive temperatures as high as 303 degree Fahrenheit and as low as negative 328 degree Fahrenheit. They possess a short plum body with eye spots and sensory appendages at one end, four pairs of stubby legs, and tiny claws on their feet.

Tardigrades are oviparous, and fertilization is usually external. Mating occurs during the molt with the eggs being laid inside the shed cuticle of the female and then covered with sperm. A few species have internal fertilization, with mating occurring before the female fully sheds her cuticle

Their durability is attributed in part to a particular protein in their cells called (Dsup), which protects their DNA from being damaged by things like ionizing radiation, which may be found in soil, water, and vegetation.

Cryptobiosis, a state of inactivity produced by a dry environment, is another incredible survival technique. The micro-animals expel all of their water, retract their heads and limbs, curl up into a small ball, and go asleep. They unfold themselves and go about their business when the weather improves.

TARDIGRADE were discovered in 1773 by the German zoologist Johann August Ephraim Goeze, who dubbed them ‘’little water bear’’. Three years later, Italian biologist Lazzaro Spallanzani named the group ‘’Tardigrada,’’ or ‘’slow stepper,’’ for their toddling gait. Link to the article; https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn14690-water-bears-are-first-animal-to-survive-space-vacuum/#ixzz7DIpMRr4I https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxndOd3kmSs&t=3s

]]>