Elysia chlorotica, commonly known as the Eastern Emerald Elysia, is a species of sea slug found along the Atlantic coast of North America. This unique creature is notable for its bright green color, which comes from the chloroplasts it incorporates from the algae it consumes. This process, known as kleptoplasty, allows the slug to perform photosynthesis, providing it with energy. The Eastern Emerald Elysia typically grows to about 5 centimeters in length and has a soft, elongated body with leaf-like extensions called cerata. These cerata not only aid in photosynthesis but also serve as a defense mechanism, making the slug less appealing to predators. Elysia chlorotica primarily feeds on algae, particularly species of Cladophora.