While the ability to self-repair or self-regenerate may sound like a superpower, there are actually creatures that have these innate capabilities.
Animals That Can Self-Repair
Though most creatures do not have inherent regenerative abilities, there are some that do. These creatures can help shed light on certain mechanisms of self-regeneration.
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Sharks
While sharks fall behind when it comes to organ or body part regeneration, they are at the forefront when it comes to dental terms. The teeth of these creatures can regenerate and regrow across their entire lifespan.
How long it may take for a shark to regrow teeth could vary. At times, it may take days, while at other times, it may take months. If scientists were to delve more into this dental process of regeneration, the field of dentistry could see revolutionary advancements.
Salamanders
Salamanders are amphibians that have short legs and a tail. In total, there are more than 700 salamander species.
While these creatures have a certain level of regeneration, there are some specific species that boast a higher capacity to regenerate. Some salamander species are capable of tail regrowth in a couple of weeks. They may drop the old one in an attempt to distract their predators. Like the old tail, their new appendage is also fully functional.
Axolotls
Axolotls are marine creatures that are similar to salamander species that boast of great abilities to regenerate. They are capable of regenerating skin, organs, limps, and any other body part. Axolotls are the only creatures that are capable of regenerating several body parts across their lifetime.
Mexican Tetra
Mexican tetra are fish that dwell in the river and have the unique capacity to regenerate tissue of the heart. According to research, the fish is capable of tissue regeneration that does not result in scarring. With this, scientists are hopeful that delving deeper into this fish species could open doors to cardiovascular disease breakthroughs.
Starfish
Starfish are known to be creatures with remarkable regenerative capacities. On top of being able to grow new limbs, they can also grow a full body from the limb that was lost. There are several novel starfish species that can grow from the original's pieces. The creature goes through a process of healing and repair for this to happen.
Chameleons
While chameleons are largely known for their capacity to change colors, they also have the ability to regenerate.
These creatures are capable of regrowing limbs and tails. On top of this, they are also capable of repairing skin and nerves that are damaged. They do so during this process of regeneration.
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