Anhydrobiosis in nematodes

Anhydrobiosis in nematodes is a remarkable survival strategy where they can withstand extreme dehydration by entering a state of suspended activity. When environmental conditions become too dry, nematodes lose most of their water content, causing their metabolic processes to nearly stop. In this dehydrated state, they form protective structures that prevent damage to their cells. Once moisture is available again, they rehydrate and resume normal functions. This ability allows nematodes to survive harsh, arid environments and periods of drought, essentially pausing their life processes until conditions improve.