ROTIFER

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Inspiration for this work was drawn from the world of Rotifers, which are aquatic animals of microscopic size. Also known as wheel animals, rotifers inhabit freshwater environments all around the world. These captivating creatures showcase remarkable adaptations despite their small size. They are capable to endure harsh conditions and serve as vital links in the food chain.

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Some rotifer species are capable of a process called cryptobiosis, which allows them to endure extreme conditions. In cryptobiosis, rotifers essentially dehydrate themselves, expelling most of the water from their bodies and entering a state of suspended animation. In this state, they can withstand harsh conditions, such as freezing temperatures, extreme dryness, and high radiation.

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One of their most distinctive features is the whirling 'wheels' that adorn their heads. These intricate, cilia-lined structures serve dual purposes—propelling them through water and drawing in food from the surrounding.

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In reality, these animals are dwarfed by the vastness of their aquatic homes. The size of the drawing helps to appreciate the profound impact they have on freshwater ecosystems. Their unique adaptations and resilience underscore the delicate balance of life in our planet's aquatic realms.