Pelagic transparent-worms

Few polychaete worms live an entirely planktonic existence. The pelagic transparent-worms (Family Tomopteridae) and the big-eyed pelagic-worms (AN13) represent two of only seven families living this way. Compared with other gelatinous forms of zooplankton, pelagic transparent-worms have a higher protein, lipid and carbohydrate content in their tissues, perhaps suggesting a role as preferred prey items.