Researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior in Germany have observed worm species constructing towers using their own bodies under natural conditions, a phenomenon previously seen only in laboratory settings.
Animal behaviorist Serena Ding says she was thrilled to witness these natural structures for the first time. The worms, which are part of the Caenorhabditis nematode species, would gather around fine projections on decaying fruit and stretch their bodies into swaying, coordinated structures called “nictating” towers.
The researchers used digital microscopy to capture the activity of dauer stages, a life stage that allows worms to survive harsh conditions. They found that these tower-constructing worms could breach gaps in the fruit and grab onto landing flys, taking them to the air.
Lead author Daniela Perez emphasizes that these structures are not just piles of worms, but coordinated superorganisms in motion. The study opens up new possibilities for exploring animal movement and social behavior.
The discovery highlights the complexity of cooperation among animals and blurs the lines between social organisms like bees, ants, and humans. With improved genetics tools and detailed knowledge of the conditions that lead to this collaboration, researchers hope to further investigate the diversity of worm structures and their significance in understanding animal movement.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/worms-use-their-bodies-to-build-towers-as-a-wild-survival-strategy