Anabiosis

/ˌænəbaɪˈoʊsɪs/ noun

Definition

A state of suspended or reduced biological activity, similar to hibernation or dormancy, where an organism survives with minimal metabolic activity.

Etymology

From Greek 'ana-' (again) and 'biosis' (life), literally meaning 'life again' or 'renewed life'; coined to describe the reversible suspension of life processes.

Kelly Says

Some microscopic animals called tardigrades can enter anabiosis and survive in space, extreme cold, and radiation—essentially freezing their life and restarting it later, making them nearly indestructible!

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