Bunce, R. Holloway, S. Scruggs, W. Merrill, L. Garcia, E. Patterson, T.
Nuclear annihilation, the ultimate fear of humans, has long been the subject of research into survival strategies for all sorts of critters. In this paper, we examine the naked mole rat, a species that not only survives but thrives in unusual environments, including underground burrows, and discuss how their unique biology might contribute to their hypothetical survival in the event of a nuclear catastrophe. Through a combination of genetics, physiology, and a general lack of wardrobe requirements, we suggest that naked mole rats could very well be one of the few species to make it out alive. So when the bombs start to fly, be sure to remember our furry subterranean friends - they just might be the key to survival!