Microscopic Hulk: Cannibalistic Microbe Discovered | Science News

Scientists have uncovered a microscopic marvel: Euplotes gigatrox, a single-celled organism that transforms into a giant, cannibalistic supergiant when food is abundant. This tiny predator swells to twice its size, develops a massive mouth, and devours smaller cells—including its own kin. Discovered in aquarium gunk from Curaçao by Ben Larson, the creature’s transformation isn’t instant—it begins with increased activity and a larger mouth before fully morphing into a circular-moving monster. But here’s the twist: it can revert back to normal size through lopsided cell division, producing up to sixteen offspring over five days. Published in PNAS, this discovery reveals astonishing cellular plasticity and survival tactics, turning microscopic life into a living, breathing Hulk of the plankton world. 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/d31df6cf7a0c26ab