Episode
The fantastically weird world of photosynthetic sea slugs | Michael Middlebrooks
11:42
Published: Mon Mar 06 2023
Description
Meet the fantastically colorful and astonishingly adaptable sea slugs that found a way to photosynthesize (or create energy from sunlight) like plants. Diving deep into these often overlooked creatures, invertebrate zoologist Michael Middlebrooks introduces the solar-powered slugs that lost their shells -- but gained the ability to directly harness the power of the sun.
Chapters
Zoologist Michael Middlebrooks takes us on a deep dive into the fascinating world of sea slugs in his TEDx PSU talk.
00:00 - 01:28 (01:28)
Summary
Zoologist Michael Middlebrooks takes us on a deep dive into the fascinating world of sea slugs in his TEDx PSU talk. From their unique characteristics to their important role in the marine ecosystem, Middlebrooks highlights the beauty and diversity of these often-overlooked creatures.
EpisodeThe fantastically weird world of photosynthetic sea slugs | Michael Middlebrooks
PodcastTED Talks Daily
Some animals, including snails and clams, have managed to become photosynthetic themselves, capturing the energy from the sun and converting it into biological energy via photosynthesis.
01:28 - 06:10 (04:42)
Summary
Some animals, including snails and clams, have managed to become photosynthetic themselves, capturing the energy from the sun and converting it into biological energy via photosynthesis. All food ultimately comes from photosynthesis, either directly from plants or indirectly through animals that consume plants.
EpisodeThe fantastically weird world of photosynthetic sea slugs | Michael Middlebrooks
PodcastTED Talks Daily
Sea slugs, such as the emerald and lettuce sea slug, are able to photosynthesize after consuming algae and incorporating their chloroplasts.
06:10 - 10:52 (04:41)
Summary
Sea slugs, such as the emerald and lettuce sea slug, are able to photosynthesize after consuming algae and incorporating their chloroplasts. These slugs have a special tooth to extract the contents of the algae, and can be found in tropical coral reefs.
EpisodeThe fantastically weird world of photosynthetic sea slugs | Michael Middlebrooks
PodcastTED Talks Daily
In this TED Radio Hour episode, experts explore the relationship between mental, physical, and spiritual health, and discuss ways to integrate and amplify our energy for optimal well-being.
10:52 - 11:35 (00:43)
Summary
In this TED Radio Hour episode, experts explore the relationship between mental, physical, and spiritual health, and discuss ways to integrate and amplify our energy for optimal well-being.