The smallest animal in the world is likely a myxozoan, a type of microscopic parasite, with some species measuring as little as 0.02 millimeters (20 micrometers) across.
Myxozoans are a subphylum of cnidarians (the group that includes jellyfish and corals) that have evolved to an extremely simplified form due to their parasitic lifestyle. Their tiny size allows them to thrive within their hosts. To provide context, these creatures are up to 100 times smaller than a grain of sand, as noted by the University of Hawaii. This minuscule size makes them contenders for the smallest animal on Earth.
Here's a breakdown of key information:
- Size: Approximately 0.02 millimeters (20 micrometers).
- Type: Microscopic parasite (Myxozoa).
- Classification: Subphylum of Cnidaria (related to jellyfish and corals).
- Habitat: Parasitic, living within hosts.
- Comparative Size: Up to 100 times smaller than a grain of sand.
While other microscopic organisms exist, myxozoans are currently the leading candidates for the title of "smallest animal" due to their complex animal cell structure, despite their extreme simplification.
