I don’t usually do memes, but I couldn’t resist this one and it gives me a chance to remind myself (and you) of some really amazing recent research. So without further ado…

Possessor of the smallest bacterial genome known, C.ruddii has lost the majority of its genes and in doing so, its independence. Its genome is too small to allow it to survive on its own and it requires the room and board provided by its insect hosts whose genomes now host C.ruddii’s genetic donations.

Dreaming of a white Christmas? This species can help. It has a protein on its surface that mimics that structure of an ice crystal, acting as template for other water molecules to latch