Why Hairworms Don’t Have Hair

Hair worms are unique parasites missing a significant portion of genes, including those for cilia, which are crucial for sensory and locomotion functions in most animals. Despite this, they thrive in both freshwater and marine environments, suggesting a long evolutionary history without these genes. Researchers have sequenced their genomes, revealing sparse genetic material and unique genes whose functions are yet to be understood. This discovery challenges our understanding of essential genetic components for survival and opens new avenues for research into how organisms adapt to extreme genetic reductions.

Describe the life cycle of hair worms and their behavior as parasites.

What are the potential functions of the unique genes found in hair worms that have not yet been discovered?