Tardigrade-obsessed: meet the researchers trying to turn water bears into neuroscience models
Briefly

Tardigrades, known for their resilience and ability to survive extreme conditions, are gaining attention in scientific research. The upcoming 16th International Symposium on Tardigrada in Tsuruoka, Japan, will gather scientists focused on these fascinating creatures. Their simple anatomy, including limbs and well-defined neural systems, make them ideal for studies in systems neuroscience. Despite their cute nickname, tardigrades are complex enough to warrant serious scientific inquiry, while also capturing the public’s fascination through memes and merchandise.
Tardigrades exist in a sweet spot: simple enough to study properly yet intricate enough for it to be worthwhile, providing a model for studying neural circuits.
From surviving extreme environments to captivating an internet community, tardigrades demonstrate remarkable resilience and possess traits that intrigue both scientists and enthusiasts alike.
Read at Nature
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