The Only Animal That Can't Breathe Oxygen

The video discusses the discovery of Henneguya salminicola, a unique multicellular organism that does not breathe oxygen. Unlike other species, it lacks mitochondrial DNA, which is crucial for oxygen-based energy production. This adaptation may be due to its oxygen-poor environment inside salmon. The absence of mtDNA in H. salminicola could be an evolutionary adaptation or a random genetic drift. This discovery not only challenges our understanding of multicellular life but also has practical implications for salmon farming, as it could lead to better-targeted treatments against this parasite.

Discuss the evolutionary implications of Henneguya salminicola losing its mtDNA.

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What potential practical applications could arise from understanding that Henneguya salminicola does not breathe oxygen?

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