Elysia timida

Elysia timida is a remarkable species of sea slug belonging to the class Mollusca and is a part of the sacoglossan sea slugs, also known as solar-powered sea slugs. Found in the coastal waters of the Comunidad Valenciana and other Mediterranean regions, this species is known for its intriguing ability to photosynthesize like plants.
The Elysia timida exhibits the following characteristics:
- Size: They are relatively small, typically measuring around 1 to 3 centimeters in length.
- Coloration: This species features a bright, green coloration due to their ability to retain chloroplasts from the algae they consume. This gives them a leaf-like appearance, which serves as an excellent camouflage against predators.
- Diet: Elysia timida feeds primarily on green algae. During this process, they incorporate chloroplasts from the algae into their own cells—a unique form of kleptoplasty, allowing them to photosynthesize and derive energy from sunlight.
- Habitat: Typically found in shallow waters, these sea slugs favor seagrass beds and rocky substrates where their food sources are abundant.
- Behavior: Despite their fascinating abilities, Elysia timida are generally slow-moving and are often observed basking in sunlight to maximize their photosynthetic capability.
The presence of Elysia timida in the waters of the Comunidad Valenciana represents a unique aspect of marine biodiversity, showcasing the complex interactions between organisms and their environment.