Heteropodids
Heteropodids, commonly known as pelagic snails or carinate snails, are a unique genus of marine gastropod mollusks belonging to the family Carinariidae. These fascinating creatures are entirely planktonic, meaning they drift with ocean currents. Unlike most snails, heteropodids have lost their shells almost entirely, retaining only a small, internal vestige. Their most striking adaptation is their modified foot, which has evolved into a large, fin-like structure used for swimming and propulsion. This allows them to navigate the water column, pursuing prey and avoiding predators.
Heteropodids are carnivorous and are typically found in tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. They are often