Scientists studying the Mediterranean Sea have discovered the first multi-cellular organism to survive completely without oxygen.
A new species of Loricifera, the animals live in marine sediments and measure less than one millimetre in length.
Using electron and infrared microscopy, in conjunction with biochemical analysis and radioactive tracers, the researchers confirmed the creatures were metabolically active.
Previously, experts had believed only viruses and bacteria could live and reproduce without the need for oxygen.
The Italian and Danish researchers that were involved in the revelation suggested that this could mean animals may exist on planets that do not have aerobic conditions.
Living at depths of more than 3,000 metres below sea level, the specimens were taken from the Mediterranean's L'Atalante basin.
University of Western Australia scientists recently utilised microscopy equipment to analyse DNA located in fossilised egg shells.
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