The Indestructible Tardigrades : The Only Animal That Sees the End of the World

Witness May 07, 2024

THE ONLY ANIMAL THAT SEES THE END OF THE WORLD : THE INDESTRUCTIBLE TARDIGRADES

Astronomers predict that as the Sun expands to the orbit of Mars during its eventual destruction, the Earth will face its demise. Over billions of years, the Sun will exhaust its necessary gases for billions of reactions, causing it to expand and engulf nearby space. This gradual process signals the eventual end of our Sun's life, estimated to occur in 7 to 10 billion years. If the Sun's expansion were to reach the ecliptic, Earth would inevitably be consumed.

As the Sun grows, Earth's temperature will gradually rise, causing oceans to heat like calderas. Unable to withstand such conditions, Earth's creatures will suffer. However, scientists have identified a species of microbe called tardigrades as the organism that will outlast the apocalypse and eventually vanish from Earth.

Tardigrades, often found in lichens, mosses, and various environments, can thrive in extreme conditions, with densities of up to 25,000 organisms per liter. These microorganisms can survive up to 30 years without food or water.

First observed in 1773 by German zoologist August Ephraim Goeze, tardigrades were aptly named "Water Bears" due to their appearance under the microscope. Later, Italian zoologist Lazzaro Spallanzani discovered their resilience under harsh conditions in 1776.

Ranging in size from 0.05 to 1.2 mm, tardigrades resemble bears under the microscope. Extensive studies in 2008 revealed their ability to survive temperatures ranging from 300°F to -328°F, pressures six times that of the ocean's depths, and even the vacuum of space.

A study published in 2008 in Smithsonian magazine revealed that certain tardigrade species survived Earth orbit for at least 10 days, enduring space's vacuum and radiation. In 2017, a scientific report confirmed their ability to withstand meteorite impacts and gamma ray exposure.

Tardigrades are poised to exist for millions of years after humans vanish from Earth. Their DNA maintenance even in highly radioactive environments ensures their survival. Scientists speculate that tardigrades will undergo further adaptations to withstand environmental changes over time, making them the last surviving animal species on Earth.

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