The single-celled S.roeselli's complex behavior was first recorded by zoologist Herbert Jennings in 1906 (Credit:Dexter et al. & Current Biology)

With no brains or nerve cells, single-cellular microorganisms are often regarded to be simple, primitive beings with few capabilities. However, a new Harvard University study suggests that protozoans, like Stentor roeselii, have the smarts to make "complex" decisions when confronted with unpleasant situations.