Cryptobiosis

Definition

Cryptobiosis is a state of extreme metabolic reduction where an organism's metabolic activities come to a reversible standstill in response to adverse environmental conditions. It allows organisms like nematodes and tardigrades to survive extreme desiccation, freezing, or lack of oxygen.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cryptobiosis enables survival through periods of intense environmental stress.
2. Nematodes and tardigrades are prime examples of organisms that can enter cryptobiosis.
3. During cryptobiosis, water content in cells can drop to less than 1% in some species.
4. The process is fully reversible; organisms return to normal function when favorable conditions return.
5. Cryptobiosis involves multiple forms such as anhydrobiosis (desiccation), cryobiosis (freezing), osmobiosis (high salinity), and anoxybiosis (lack of oxygen).

Review Questions

• What types of environmental stressors can induce cryptobiosis in nematodes and tardigrades?
• How does the water content in cells change during cryptobiosis?
• Name at least two forms of cryptobiosis and the specific stress conditions they address.

Related terms

Anhydrobiosis: A form of cryptobiosis induced by desiccation where the organism loses almost all body water.

Cryobiosis:

A form of cryptobiosis triggered by extremely low temperatures resulting in the formation of ice within tissues.

Osmobiosis:

A type of cryptobiosis caused by high solute concentration environments where organisms adapt to osmotic stress.