The Rotifers

"The Rotifers" by Robert Abernathy is a science fiction story set in the 1950s that looks at the hidden world of rotifers, tiny creatures living in freshwater, and how they affect a father and son. The story talks about what could happen if people go too far trying to figure out the mysteries of life, especially when humans come into contact with unseen, possibly intelligent, beings. Henry Chatham's son, Harry, gets really interested in rotifers after his dad gives him a microscope. Harry's obsession grows as he studies these little creatures, and he starts to think they have a dark intelligence. He becomes feverish and reveals that the rotifers might be planning something evil against humans, leading Henry to a desperate attempt to save his son and get rid of the rotifer threat. The story mixes scientific curiosity with spooky suspense, making readers think about the hidden dangers that might be lurking in the smallest parts of our world.