Tardigrada

**Definition:** A phylum of microscopic ecdysozoan invertebrates, closely related to ARTHROPODS. Members exhibit anabiosis and cryptobiosis, dormant states where metabolic activity is reduced or absent, thus making them tolerant to extreme environmental conditions. They are distributed worldwide and most are semi-aquatic.

**Tree numbers:** - B01.050.500.901

**Synonyms:** - Tartigrades - Water Bears