Tardigrades, commonly called water bears, are microscopic animals that have a reputation for being indestructible, yet they are quite vulnerable when they are newborns. Are they born, or do they hatch? In this strange sequence, it seems like both.
In the tardigrade species shown here, the male deposits sperm under the female's cuticle, or outer shell. When she molts, she deposits eggs into the discarded skin, where they are fertilized. The discarded cuticle provides an extra layer of protection. When they hatch, the young water bears must find the head opening in their mother's skin. Yes, it's weird, but it works for them. (via Born in Space)
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