Philodina roseola Grazing with cogwheels
Philodina roseola is a microscopic animal found in moist environments, often together with mosses and other microorganisms.
Rotifer
Philodina roseola has a unique method for moving around, using tiny hairs called cilia that draw water and food toward it in a rotational motion. These cilia are also the reason for its distinctive name: rotifer (or ‘wheel animal’). This rotating motion makes it seem as if the creatures are using tiny cogwheels to propel themselves forward.
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All P. roseola are female and reproduce by asexual reproduction. This means that the species does not require males to reproduce. Instead, the tiny creature lays unfertilised eggs that grow into more new females, which are effectively ‘clones’ of their mother.
Survival in the most extreme conditions
Philodina roseola is an expert survivor. When conditions become too harsh, such as during a drought, this rotifer can enter a state of suspended animation. They dry out completely and wait for their habitat to become favourable once more. When the water returns, they come back to life as if nothing had happened.
Nature’s little helper
Although Philodina roseola is effectively invisible, it plays an important role in the ecosystem, helping to keep water clean by consuming algae and other microscopic particles. This helps to keep the fresh water habitat balanced and healthy.
Want to learn more about microbes?
Philodina roseola is just one of the many microscopic organisms on display at ARTIS-Micropia, each and every one of them with its own unique role in our world. Come by and discover them all!