The microscopic roundworms, which belong to a previously unknown species of nematode, were extracted from permafrost near the Kolyma River in the northeastern Arctic. This groundbreaking achievement was reported in a study published in the journal PLOS Genetics.
The researchers noted that surviving in extreme environments for extended periods is a challenge that only a few organisms can overcome. They stated, "Here, we show that a soil nematode suspended life for 46,000 years in the Siberian permafrost." The nematodes entered a state called cryptobiosis, reducing their metabolism to extremely low levels to withstand the harsh conditions.
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The age of the roundworms was determined using radiocarbon dating of the plant material found in the permafrost. The fact that these ancient creatures were brought back to life after 46,000 years is even more remarkable considering that the typical lifespan of a roundworm is only one to two months.
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The study revealed that the nematodes were located in a fossil burrow left by arctic gophers, about 130 feet deep. The cells of the prehistoric roundworms were believed to be protected from dehydration by a sugar called trehalose.
July 31, 2023
To confirm their revival, the scientists conducted further experiments. Philipp Schiffer, a co-author of the study and evolutionary biologist at the University of Cologne in Germany, stated, "We can say that they are alive because they move, they eat bacteria on the culture plates, and they reproduce."
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The researchers also discovered that the newly described nematode species reproduces asexually through parthenogenesis and possesses three full sets of chromosomes, instead of the usual two. By spawning over 100 generations of these worms in the lab, they were able to gain further insights into their characteristics and behavior.
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Thomas Boothby, a molecular biologist at the University of Wyoming, who was not involved in the study, expressed his astonishment, stating, "To have a complex and multicellular organism that can shut down and go into this state of suspended animation—for all extents and purposes appear dead... that's mind-boggling."
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This groundbreaking research sheds light on the remarkable adaptability and resilience of certain organisms. The ability of these nematodes to survive in a cryptobiotic state for such an extended period suggests that they have the potential to endure geological timeframes.
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The revival of these prehistoric worms opens up new possibilities for studying ancient life forms and understanding their adaptations to extreme environments. It also raises intriguing questions about the potential for life on other planets or moons with similar conditions. As scientists continue to explore the mysteries of our world and beyond, the resilience of these ancient worms serves as a testament to the wonders of nature.
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