The species of slug known as Elysia chlorotica may not look like much— it resembles a bright green leaf— but it's one of the most extraordinary creatures on our planet. Living in marshes along the coast of North America, it can go about a year without eating. During that time, it lives like a plant. How is this possible? Luka Seamus Wright digs into the incredible adaptations of these mixotrophs. [Directed by Denis Chapon, narrated by Jack Cutmore-Scott, music by Salil Bhayani, cAMP Studio].

Luka Seamus Wright: These animals are also plants ... wait, what?

These animals are also plants ... wait, what?

Elysia chlorotica, a slug, blurs the line between animal and plant by photosynthesizing, challenging our understanding of life.

This slug's ability to maintain stolen chloroplasts for a year, outliving peers, showcases a unique approach to energy and survival.

Mixotrophy in Elysia chlorotica hints at early plant evolution, illustrating nature's complex web of interdependence and adaptation.