Hairy Miniswarmer

The hairy miniswarmer has split from its ancestor and has since spread throughout the sunlight waters of Sagan IV. With tiny, nearly functionless mouth and large fins, it lazily floats near the surface, absorbing nutrients directly through its skin. It has evolved special strands of cells on its back - similar to hair in appearance - that are sights of primary nutrient absorption. They breed quickly, mature fast, and live short lives. The massive clouds of phytoplankton they form are a sign of their success. Their presence has caused a boom in populations of planktonivores, helping to grow the ocean's food webs.