Stealing genetic code

I'm designing a creature that has found a new way to evolve directly during its life time. This method is different from having to bear incredible environmental stress or being a victim to violent radiation.

This entity strives to survive by stealing the genetic code of other organisms around and using it to adapt to new menaces.

The creature decodes the genetic code of something else, copying the useful parts, and then importing them into a compatible format like DNA to XNA and vice versa.

I imagine this ability could be useful for a myriad of things like fighting cancer, by simply stealing the genetic code of animals that have already become immune to it (like naked mole rats) or defeating a virus by using the genetic code of said virus for its own advantage.

Much like water bears, but with the bonus of choosing what genetic code to steal instead of letting fate decide.

Over time using the genetic code of other organisms can transform this entity into a completely different creature (without losing the genetic thief ability).

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Stealing genetic code

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