How hydras know where to regrow their heads

Mechanical force helps guide hydra regeneration process

Hydra vulgaris

A new study suggests that stretchy skeletal structures play a crucial role in helping hydras (Hydra vulgaris shown) regrow their heads in the right place.

Proyecto Agua/Flickr (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

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Hydras, petite pond polyps known for their seemingly eternal youth, exemplify the art of bouncing back (SN: 7/23/16, p.