Scientist Unlocking the Secrets of Sea Slug that Lives Like a Plant
Tuesday, November 18, 2008 - 17:14
in Biology & Nature
(PhysOrg.com) -- Photosynthesis generates the oxygen needed for life on earth as well as the biomass for food and biofuel production. The process is driven by the absorption of the sun`s energy by tiny green "bodies" called chloroplasts. The "solar-powered" sea slug Elysia chlorotica has fascinated scientists for years because of its ability to retain "stolen" chloroplasts and carry out photosynthesis as if it was a plant.