(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.