A close examination of [salamander] eggs revealed that some of the algae were living within the embryos themselves, and in some cases were actually inside embryonic cells. That suggested the embryos weren't just taking oxygen from the algae: they might be taking glucose too. In other words, the algae were acting as internal power stations, generating fuel for the salamanders.
To find out if that was happening, Erin Graham of Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and colleagues incubated salamander eggs in water containing radioactive carbon-14. Algae take up the isotope in the form of carbon dioxide, producing radioactive glucose.
Graham found that the embryos became mildly radioactive – unless kept in the dark. That showed that the embryos could only take in the carbon-14 via photosynthesis in the algae.
Solar powered vertebrates, also known as photosynthetic vertebrates, obtain energy through a symbiotic relationship with algae. The algae live within the cells of the vertebrate and use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, a form of sugar. The vertebrate then uses this glucose as a source of energy.
Any type of vertebrate, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, can potentially have a symbiotic relationship with algae. However, this relationship is most commonly seen in species that spend a significant amount of time in the sun, such as reptiles and birds.
No, solar powered vertebrates cannot survive without sunlight. The algae within their cells require sunlight to carry out photosynthesis and produce glucose. Without sunlight, the algae would not be able to provide energy for the vertebrate, leading to starvation and ultimately death.
While being a solar powered vertebrate may seem like a beneficial adaptation, there are also potential drawbacks. These animals are limited to living in areas where there is an abundance of sunlight, and they may struggle to survive in areas with long periods of darkness. Additionally, if the algae within their cells die or are unable to carry out photosynthesis for any reason, the vertebrates may not be able to obtain enough energy to survive.
Yes, there are several known species of solar powered vertebrates in nature. Some examples include the emerald green sea slug, spotted salamander, and green tree frog. These animals have evolved to have a symbiotic relationship with algae, allowing them to obtain energy from the sun and survive in their respective habitats.