Why tiny water bears are true survivors – and what it might mean for astronauts

The microscopic animal has radiation-resistant genes that could have applications in space, crops and medicine, Chinese researcher says

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A water bear, or tardigrade, measures around 1mm long but fascinates scientists with its radiation-resisting abilities. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 2:00pm, 2 Nov 2024

A microscopic creature, known as the most diehard animal on Earth, could hold the key to how humans can survive in extreme environments – including space.

Water bears – or tardigrades – which are no more than 1mm in length, have long been known for their high resistance to radiation. Now Chinese researchers have identified the genes that give them these radiation-resisting powers.

And their discovery could have far-reaching implications – from space travel to cancer treatment.

“The discovery of the anti-radiation mechanism of tardigrades has broad practical application prospects, involving medicine, space exploration, environmental protection, biotechnology, agriculture and other fields,” said Zhang Lingqiang, a researcher with the Beijing Institute of Lifeomics and co-author of a paper published in the peer reviewed journal Science on October 25.

“The anti-radiation mechanism of tardigrades may provide inspiration for the development of new space radiation protection materials to protect astronauts from radiation damage.”

Tardigrades – also known as water bears or moss piglets – are a group of eight-legged microorganisms found almost everywhere on Earth, including Antarctica and the bottom of the ocean.