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Ancient Roundworm Revived from Siberian Permafrost After 46,000 Years

  • A roundworm found in Siberian permafrost has been revived after remaining frozen for 46,000 years.
  • The worm, identified as a new species called Panagrolaimus kolymaensis, survived by entering a state of cryptobiosis.
  • Radiocarbon dating confirmed the worm's age, making it the oldest animal ever revived after being frozen.
  • Studying the worm could provide insights into cryptobiosis and have implications for cryopreservation.
  • The discovery raises concerns about what might be released as permafrost thaws due to climate change.
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