3 Amazing Photosynthetic Animals

Hank Green discusses the surprising ability of some animals to photosynthesize, a trait typically associated with plants. He highlights three examples: the eastern emerald elysia, a sea slug that uses algae genes; the pea aphid, which produces carotenoids for photosynthesis; and the spotted salamander, the only known photosynthetic vertebrate. These discoveries challenge the notion that only plants can harness sunlight for energy, opening up possibilities for future research and even human applications.

What unique ability does the eastern emerald elysia possess?

• It can change colors.

• It can photosynthesize using algae genes.

• It can live on land and water.

• It can fly.

How do pea aphids differ in their ability to produce ATP?

• They produce ATP regardless of color.

• They produce ATP only in the dark.

• White aphids produce more ATP than orange ones.

• Green aphids produce more ATP than white ones.

What role do carotenoids play in pea aphids?

• They help aphids fly.

• They assist in photosynthesis.

• They allow aphids to live underwater.

• They make aphids invisible to predators.

What is a notable feature of the spotted salamander?

• It is the only known photosynthetic vertebrate.

• It can live without water.

• It can fly short distances.

• It changes its skin color.

How do the algae benefit the spotted salamander?

• They provide camouflage.

• They help power the salamander's cells.

• They make the salamander immune to diseases.

• They allow the salamander to breathe underwater.