Tardigrades are microscopic animals famous for their extraordinary toughness. They live in almost every habitat on Earth and are studied for insights into survival under extreme conditions.
Interesting facts
- They are nicknamed water bears or moss piglets.
- There are over 1,300 described species.
- Tardigrades have eight stubby legs with claws.
- Some produce unique proteins that protect their DNA from damage.
- Tardigrades survived exposure to open space on a 2007 satellite experiment.
- You can find them by soaking moss in water and looking under a microscope.
Behaviour
Tardigrades crawl slowly through films of water on moss and soil, feeding by piercing cells.
Breeding and young
Most lay eggs; some species can reproduce without males.
Threats and conservation
Not assessed; widespread.
Where to see it
- In moss almost anywhere, with a simple microscope
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
