Fucoxanthin (Lat. Fucus - Lichen, Gr. Xanthos - Yellow)

Fucoxanthin is a brown pigment found in the cells of diatoms, brown algae, and dinoflagellates.

Fucoxanthin belongs to the class of carotenoids and gives the characteristic brown color to many algae, in particular kelp and fucus. This pigment plays an important role in the process of photosynthesis, absorbing light in the blue-green region of the spectrum and protecting the cell from excess light.

In addition, fucoxanthin has antioxidant properties, which makes it promising for use in the food and pharmaceutical industries. It can be isolated from algae and used as a food additive and biologically active substance.

Thus, fucoxanthin is an important pigment of brown algae, playing a significant role in their metabolism and having beneficial properties for humans.