Galliot (2012) provides a thorough and fascinating summary of the history and use of Hydra in research and how that work has influenced many areas of biology. It is unlikely that Abraham Trembley realized in 1744 how foundational his observations of Hydra regeneration would be for the use of this genus as a model organism. As demonstrated throughout various sections of this chapter, Hydra has been extensively cultured and studied by biologists in almost every imaginable biological field ranging from molecular physiology to ecotoxicity ( Figure 9.19 Galliot, 2012).
An entire volume of the International Journal of Developmental Biology was dedicated to research and advancements using Hydra (volume 56, 2012). There is a large body of literature pertaining to Hydra, and the scientific use of these organisms has undoubtedly advanced several aspects of research globally. Hydra species are the most thoroughly used cnidarian for studying important biological concepts.
