What Causes the Synchronized Movement of Fuzzy Green Glacier Mice?

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Glacier mice, rare moss formations found in ice fields worldwide, exhibit a puzzling behavior of synchronized movement and directional changes. Researchers are investigating how these moss balls, which develop tiny pedestals as surrounding ice melts, manage to roll and move in unison. The green coloration on their undersides indicates light exposure, suggesting they are capable of rolling away from their original positions. The term "glacier mice" was introduced by a Danish explorer in 1950, highlighting their unique and resilient nature in extreme conditions. The discussion also touches on humorous comparisons to fictional creatures and scenarios, reflecting the intrigue and charm surrounding these unusual plants.
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Balls of moss on ice fields that slowly move all in the same direction and velocity. Like herds. Then change direction. It is not known how all of this happens.
https://www.npr.org/2020/05/22/8588...f-fuzzy-green-glacier-mice-baffles-scientists
Check out the article - good photos.

These moss balls, plants, are found with rarity in several glacier/ice fields world wide. This article is about researchers trying to understand how the mice move - all in concert, and with periodic synchronized directional changes. And some other research on them. Basically not a whole lot is understood other than that they have tiny pedestals formed as the surrounding ice melts, then it is assumed that they fall off. And we know they do roll, because the moss on the underside is green from light exposure.

They are kind of cute. Especially given the extreme condtions where they are found. The name glacier mice was coined by a Danish explorer in 1950.
 
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Not sure whether to make a joke about...

1. First the Trifids - now predatory moss! Run!
2. New movie: "Underworld IV - Rise of the Lichens"
3. Green Tribbles
 
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