Suggested model of the main strategies of desiccation tolerance in <i>C</i>.

<div><p><b><i>elegans</i></b>. </p> <p>The hypometabolic dauer larva senses a decrease in ambient humidity, perhaps via head neurons, and initiates a desiccation response at different levels. As a result of this, ROS and xenobiotics are eliminated, proteins and membranes are stabilized, and other essential functions are fulfilled. The ametabolic transition (anhydrobiosis) can only succeed under these conditions.</p>