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How can a tardigrade survive by becoming inactive?

Becoming inactive is not simply giving up. As Richtersius coronifer dries, it withdraws its limbs and reorganizes its body into a compact state called a tun. Researchers investigated the active preparation needed for that transition, then checked recovery after rehydration. The remarkable question is how a body preserves the possibility of restarting, rather than continuing normal activity without water.

3–7 min

Questions you could explore

  • What would count as convincing evidence that an inactive animal had survived and recovered?

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Nature and biology

How does a honey bee dance give directions?

A returning honey bee can communicate about food without leading every other bee to it. The direction and duration of its waggle dance carry information that other bees can use beyond the dark hive.

3–5 min

How does a honey bee dance give directions?

Nature and biology3–5 minA returning honey bee can communicate about food without leading every other bee to it. The direction and duration of its waggle dance carry information that other bees can use beyond the dark hive.

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5–7 min

How can an octopus change color so quickly?

Nature and biology5–7 minAn octopus can alter the appearance of its skin far faster than a new coat of pigment could grow. Tiny structures already in the skin control what becomes visible, with pigment and reflected light playing different roles.

Nature and biology

How do bats use echoes to find prey?

An echo can tell an echolocating bat more than whether something is nearby. The delay and character of returning sound help it follow a target as the encounter changes.

3–5 min

How do bats use echoes to find prey?

Nature and biology3–5 minAn echo can tell an echolocating bat more than whether something is nearby. The delay and character of returning sound help it follow a target as the encounter changes.

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