Friday, 15 January 2016

Shape-shifting worm creates five different versions of itself


Shape-shifting worm creates five different versions of itself
Genetic studies have shown single species of nematode worm, newly discovered inside figs, can develop into five distinct forms.
Two that feed on microbes and three larger ones with bigger mouths equipped with rows of teeth, for catching other species of nematodes.
 It is a striking example of physical divergence without genetic divergence.

Photo: One of the larger forms of Pristionchus, which eats other nematodes

Source & further reading:
https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn28783-shape-shifting-worm-creates-five-different-versions-of-itself/

#biodiversity   #worms   #research   #coolcritters

4 comments:

  1. Nematodes... Things that gives me the chills.

    Unreal transformation ability! Caterpillar to butterfly is similar is it not? All the genetic material of the butterfly form already exists in the caterpillar... I wonder how these guys "transform"... At will? Can they go from their larger cannabilistic form back down to microbe eating form?

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  2. I imagine that's not a pleasant way to go.

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  3. creepy... not sure I want to ever eat a fig

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