Elysia chlorotica: The Solar-Powered Sea Slug

A Unique Marine Gastropod Elysia chlorotica, also referred to as the eastern emerald elysia, is a medium-to-small-sized green sea slug. It is a member of the Sacoglossa clade, also known as sap-sucking sea slugs, and is famous for kleptoplasty—the process of harnessing chloroplasts from ingested algae for photosynthesis. It has an endosymbiotic relationship with the chloroplasts of the saltwater heterokont alga Vaucheria litorea , enabling it to utilize the sun's energy to survive. Distributed along North America's east coast, from Florida to Nova Scotia, it lives in salt marshes, tidal pools, and shallow creeks at a depth of 0.5 meters or less. Photosynthesis and Survival Strategy Elysia chlorotica begins life as a red-pigmented brown juvenile. When it eats Vaucheria litorea , it absorbs the chloroplasts from the alga and transforms into a bright green color, blending with its surroundings. The chloroplasts continue to function for months, allowing the slug to produce energy ...