Book 11, Question 131
Why Do Tardigrades Survive Extreme Conditions?
Tardigrades survive extreme conditions because they can dry up and pause their bodies! These tiny animals look like chubby bears with eight legs. They wake up again when water returns.
More fun facts
- Tardigrades are tiny eight legged animals also called water bears or moss piglets.
- They can only be active in water.
- When conditions get harsh, tardigrades curl into a ball called a tun.
- In the tun state, they pull in their legs, lose nearly all their water and turn their insides glassy.
- Tardigrades have even been to outer space.
- Even though they are tough, tardigrades still have predators.
Sources: Science News Explores, National Geographic Kids, National Geographic
Questions kids ask
Can I see a tardigrade?
You need a microscope, because they are microscopic.