epitoky

thumb|right|200px|Syllid [[polychaete budding epitokes for the purpose of sexual reproduction.]] thumb|right|200px|Alitta succinea, the common clam worm ([[Nereididae) in epitoky stage]]

Epitoky is a process that occurs in many species of polychaete marine worms wherein a sexually immature worm (the atoke) is modified or transformed into a sexually mature worm (the epitoke). In many species, the reproductive unit eventually detaches from the parent body as a distinct and independent individual called a stolon. Stolons are pelagic morphs capable of sexual reproduction. Unlike the immature form, which is typically benthic (lives on the bottom), epitokes are specialized for swimming as well as reproducing. The primary benefit to epitoky is increased chances of finding other members of the same species for reproduction.