Aging is a fact of life… unless you’re a tiny jellyfish known as Turritopsis dohrnii! This incredible creature has a superpower that scientists call biological immortality.
The Jellyfish That Rewinds Time
Most jellyfish go through a life cycle: they start as tiny larvae, grow into polyps, and then mature into their adult form, called a medusa. But Turritopsis dohrnii has a trick up its tentacles—if it gets injured or stressed, it can revert back to its polyp stage instead of dying! This means it can restart its life cycle indefinitely under the right conditions.
Why Doesn’t It Take Over the Oceans?
Even though Turritopsis dohrnii can technically live forever, it still faces threats like predators, disease, and environmental changes. That’s why it hasn’t taken over the ocean—though it has spread worldwide thanks to ocean currents and ballast water from ships.
Fun Facts About This Immortal Jellyfish
It was first discovered in 1883, but scientists didn’t realize its “immortality” until the 1990s.
The jellyfish is smaller than a pinky fingernail, growing only about 4.5 mm wide.
Scientists are studying its ability to reverse aging to see if it could inspire new medical breakthroughs.
While humans aren’t immortal, nature has some fascinating tricks up its sleeve! Maybe one day, this jellyfish will help unlock secrets to a longer life.