Nature’s Toughest Survivors
By: Anne Morgan

Illustrated by: Jennifer Falkner

Hardback | October 2024 | $ 24.99
ISBN: 9781486316052 | 32 pages | 250 x 250 mm
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Colour illustrations

ePDF | October 2024
ISBN: 9781486316069
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Available from eRetailers

ePUB | October 2024
ISBN: 9781486316076
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Available from eRetailers

If these fascinating little microorganisms, or Tardigrades as they are known, were any larger, you would think they had been invented by a science fiction writer. Nicknamed “water bears” or “moss piglets”, they are cute and scary at the same time. In fact, they have been around for billions of years working hard to maintain a stable ecosystem.

Tardigrades are virtually indestructible and can live in extreme temperatures or conditions. The book explains their life cycle with colourful illustrations and is easy to understand. It can be quite a surprise to see the actual size of an individual Tardigrade. The inclusion of words and pictures used within the book could easily be a basis for teachers to use as stepping stones for further learning.

The book is easy to read and provides a fascinating insight into the microscopic world of Tardigrades’ life. Although it is aimed at younger children, it is suitable for children of all ages, or a quick adult read if the topic has you wondering about something you have never known existed. It may encourage children to investigate the natural microscopic world around them further.

Helen Riley