Tardigrades (Water bear/moss piglet) ( UPSC Prelims)

News Context

Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is set to transport Tardigrades to the International Space Station (ISS) for experimental purposes. These micro-animals, measuring about half a millimeter in length, possess eight legs and segmented bodies. They are known for their ability to withstand extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, through a process called cryptobiosis, which is a state of extreme inactivity triggered by unfavorable environmental conditions. Tardigrades can also endure crushing pressures and radiation, and they are found globally. There are two recognized classes of tardigrades: Eutardigrada and Heterotardigrada, the latter of which includes marine species.