copepod outshines Olympic athletes

Microlympics showcases feats of 'athletic' microbes – Aug. 5, 2016

During the Microlympics, Micropia will be showing that microbes would break all human records if they were allowed to compete in the Olympic Games in Rio.

Micropia is showcasing (until mid-September 2016) the unique capabilities of microbes, which put them on a par with Olympic champions. Via a special route, Micropia visitors will discover the world of microbes from a fresh perspective.

The copepod (Cyclops strenuus) rows a distance of twelve times its own body length in just one second.

Microlympics

If you think Usain Bolt runs fast, Ranomi Kromowidjojo swims swiftly or the Holland Eight row rapidly, then wait until you meet the athletes from the microworld. From the bioluminescent bacterium and the copepod to the dung fungus, each and every one can do something special. Synchronised shining, planktonic rowing or spore shot put. For example, the dung fungus, also known as the Pilobolus, shoots its spores nearly five times farther than the human record holder. The human shot put record is 23.1 metres. This microbe shoots its spores as far away as 2 metres, which, on a human scale, would equal a distance of 120 metres.

The lab talk

During the Microlympics, visitors will be taking a closer look at the records held by various 'athletic' microbes. You are invited to learn everything about the remarkable skills of microbes during 'The lab talk’ held twice a day.

The Microlympics run through mid-September 2016 at Micropia.