1. Marine worm-like animals of the phylum Pogonophora, characterized by a long, slender body and a crown of tentacles at the anterior end, typically found in deep-sea environments.
Usage: plural form; scientific/zoological term; also called beard worms

Examples

• Pogonophorans were discovered in the deep ocean trenches during the mid-20th century.
• These pogonophorans lack a mouth and digestive system, relying instead on symbiotic bacteria.
• Scientists study pogonophorans to understand life in extreme deep-sea environments.
• The unique tentacles of pogonophorans help them capture food particles from the water.
• Pogonophorans represent an important branch of marine biodiversity.