Naturally occurring fluorescence protects the eutardigrade Paramacrobiotus sp. from ultraviolet radiation

Abstract

Naturally occurring fluorescence has been observed in multiple species ranging from bacteria to birds. In macroscopic animals such as birds and fishes, fluorescence provides a visual communication signal. However, the functional significance of this phenomenon is not known in most cases. Though photoprotection is attributed to fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) light in some organisms, it lacks direct experimental evidence. Here, we have identified a new species of eutardigrade belonging to the genus Paramacrobiotus, which exhibits fluorescence under UV light. Using a natural variant of the same species that lacks fluorescence, we show that the fluorescence confers tolerance to lethal UV radiation. Remarkably, we could transfer this property to UV-sensitive Hypsibius exemplaris, another eutardigrade, and also to C. elegans, a nematode. Using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) we isolated the fluorescent compound from Paramacrobiotus sp. This compound has excitation maxima ({lambda}ex) at 370 nm and emission maxima ({lambda}em) at 420-430 nm. We propose that Paramacrobiotus sp. uses a fluorescent shield that absorbs harmful UV radiation, and emits harmless blue light, thereby protecting itself from the lethal effects of UV radiation. Summary statementTardigrades are well known for their tolerance to extreme environmental conditions. In this study, we have identified a new tardigrade species that employs a fluorescent shield to protect itself from the germicidal ultra violet radiation.