Deathworm Morphant

Deathworms were symbiotic creatures used by the Morgs to enable them to survive beyond death. When a deathworm was consumed, it would incubate in its host's body until the moment of death, then leave with the host's consciousness preserved inside it and seek out a new host. It could survive most assaults, including disintegration. The Master consumed one to survive his execution on Skaro. (EDA: The Eight Doctors) Although the procedure appeared to be both permanent and safe when carried out by the Morgs, the Master's borrowed body began to decay almost as soon as he took possession of it. (Doctor Who (1996))