The Andalites have DNA that's very different from ours

HOW TO MORPH

The Andalites have DNA that's very different from ours. We have normal, double-helixed deoxyribonucleic acid. The Andalites, however, have DNA that looks like a flat braid, instead of a helix. Their DNA, which we will call XDNA, for xeno-deoxyribonucleic acid (xeno is from a Greek word meaning 'stranger,' and often used to denote things pertaining to extraterrestrials) is much easier to shift than ours.

This means that Andalites can change the code of their XDNA with relative ease. Not only can they change it to mimic the code of other animals that have the same type of XDNA, but they can also mimic animals that don't have the same type of XDNA.

That doesn't mean that Andalites are natural shapeshifters; just that it's easier for them to shapeshift. To actually change shape, they need the Escafil Device.

This is a small blue box, as most of you know. What this does is this: When you touch it, it sends an electromagnetic radio wave through your DNA cells, making them vibrate, and therefore making them easier to shift. However, to actually shift, you need an alternate DNA pattern stored in your cells. The Escafil Device makes your DNA or XDNA cells more receptive, allowing you to 'acquire' the DNA of another animal.

When DNA or XDNA is acquired, it takes great concentration to actually shift the XDNA cells. However, very few organisms actually have the required amount of concentration. The Escafil Device concentrates your psychic power on shifting your DNA, so it's easier to shift.

At this time, there is no single verified explanation of how the Animorphs, human adolescents, are able to use the Escafil Device, since it's programmed specifically for XDNA. Some theories are that the Animorphs are actually Andalites, and just don't know it. Some have also speculated that the Escafil Device changes DNA to XDNA. None of these theories have yet been proven, however.

Next time: How the Yeerks are able to take over people's brains.