Water bear (Echiniscus granulatus), coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Water bears (or tardigrades) are tiny invertebrates that live in aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats such as lichen and damp moss. Echiniscus granulatus is a herbivorous species that feeds on moss cells. Water bears are found throughout the world, including regions of extreme temperature, such as hot springs, and extreme pressure, such as deep underwater. They can also survive the high levels of radiation and vacuum of space. Magnification: x1000 when printed at 10 centimetres wide.