Sea Slug (Elysia chlorotica)

Elysia chlorotica, commonly known as the sea slug or emerald green sea slug, is a fascinating marine creature that can perform a remarkable biological feat: photosynthesis. It feeds on algae, extracting the algae’s chloroplasts—structures that convert sunlight into energy—and holding them in its own tissues. This allows the sea slug to produce some of its own food using sunlight, similar to plants. This symbiotic relationship enables Elysia chlorotica to survive longer without eating by harnessing solar energy, making it a unique example of animal-algae cooperation in the natural world.