Tardigrades: Exploring Their Genetic Secrets

Discover the awe-inspiring world of tardigrades, also known as water bears. Did you know the microscopic tardigrsdes can survive dehydration, freezing temperatures, and even the vacuum of outer space? Alex Dainis explains the fascinating realm of tardigrades and their incredible resilience. In 2015, groundbreaking research revealed that tardigrades possess a remarkable genetic makeup, with approximately one-sixth of their genome originating from other organisms through a process known as horizontal gene transfer. From bacteria to fungi, these tiny organisms have picked up genetic material from a variety of sources, enhancing their ability to thrive in extreme environments.