Variens

Variens are a proposed clade of microorganisms described in speculative biology and science fiction as models of extreme genetic and morphological variability. The concept is used to explore how life could adapt through rapid genome remodeling, pleomorphism, and dynamic replication strategies. They are not an officially recognized taxon.

The name derives from varians, Latin for varying, reflecting their fluctuating traits and adaptable physiology.

In theoretical accounts, Variens possess highly mutable genomes with abundant mobile elements and frequent horizontal gene transfer. They may display pleomorphism, shifting cell shapes and sizes, and can switch metabolic modes in response to environmental signals. Some models posit multiple replicons and variable ploidy within individual cells.

Reproduction and life cycle in speculative scenarios involve asexual division with recombination events, followed by phases of genome exploration and stabilization that can yield a range of phenotypes from a single lineage.

Habitats described in literature include hydrothermal vents, acidic springs, polluted or nutrient-poor environments, and transient habitats. The concept originated in speculative essays from the late 21st century and remains controversial, viewed by many scientists as a thought experiment rather than evidence of real organisms.

Variens are used in discussions of evolution and taxonomy to illustrate how variability can blur species boundaries and challenge conventional definitions of life, reproduction, and adaptation.