Intermediate filament (IF) protein that forms both short filaments and extensive cytoskeletal networks which most likely are homomeric (PubMed:26840051). Some of the cytotardin arrays display cage-like perinuclear structures, while others are located in the periphery close to the cell membrane (PubMed:26840051). The entire tardigrade body is ensheathed by a grid of belt-like filaments formed by the cytotardin protein, which retain their integrity even in contracted specimens (PubMed:26840051). The belt-like structures encircling each epidermal cell might help to resist the shearing forces that arise during freezing and thawing cycles, whereas the dense meshwork at the basis of each claw and around the stylets might provide the tissue stability necessary for locomotion and feeding (PubMed:26840051). Localizes in the peripheral cytoplasm of all epidermal and foregut cells, where it appears to be closely associated or aligned with the plasma membrane (PubMed:26840051). Occurs close to desmosomes but is not co-localized with desmoplakin (PubMed:26840051). Contains an alpha-helical IF rod domain organization with three coiled coil-forming segments (coil 1A, coil 1B, and coil 2) (PubMed:26840051). Belongs to the intermediate filament family.