These 8 Facts Are Proof That The Tardigrade Is A Super Cool Creature

Adapt to anything

Tardigrades have the unique ability to change their DNA in response to environmental stress. When exposed to high levels of radiation or other sources of stress, tardigrades can break apart their DNA into smaller fragments, a process called DNA fragmentation.

This triggers a process called homologous recombination, where fragments are reassembled in a way that allows the tardigrade to repair any damage and adapt to the new environment. This awesome ability is not found in most other organisms, making tardigrades a valuable subject for genetic engineering.