Costasiella kuroshimae, also known as the “Leaf Sheep,” is a small sea slug that can be found in the waters near Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is a member of the sacoglossan sea slug clade, which includes other species that can perform photosynthesis. The Leaf Sheep’s adorable appearance is due to its beady eyes and cute feelers, which make it look like a cartoon sea sheep.
Image credits: Jim Lynn
Image credits: Lynn Wu
What makes the Leaf Sheep particularly fascinating is its ability to perform photosynthesis, a process normally associated with plants and algae. When it eats algae, the Leaf Sheep sucks out the chloroplasts and incorporates them into its own body in a process called kleptoplasty. This allows the Leaf Sheep to become solar-powered, essentially making it a tiny animal that can harness the power of the sun.
Image credits: Johnny Chiu
Despite their small size, Leaf Sheep are important members of their ecosystem. They help control algae populations and provide food for other animals. They also offer a unique perspective on the boundaries between plant and animal life, and the ways in which organisms can evolve and adapt to their environments.
Image credits: Jim Lynn
Image credits: Randi Ang