Deep-Sea Isopods Stole a Bacterial Gene | Science News

Scientists cracked the mystery of how giant deep-sea isopods survive for years without eating—they stole a bacterial gene that lets them slow their metabolism and store food like a survivalist. This rare genetic transfer, pinpointed as ND1, works in animals far from its bacterial roots and even lowers metabolism in other species when tested. It’s proof that microbes can drive big evolutionary leaps, especially in Earth’s hidden, food-scarce deep ocean. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/fc3f81ff98b6c8b8