Phycoerythrin (Gr. Fikos - Algae, Erythros - Red)

Phycoerythrin (from the Greek words "phykos", meaning "algae", and "erythros", meaning "red") is a red chromoprotein found in red algae cells. This pigment has a bright red color and plays an important role in the life processes of algae.

Phycoerythrin was first discovered in 1949 in red seaweed. Since then, many different types of algae containing this pigment have been discovered. Phycoerythrin is a protein consisting of more than 100 amino acid residues and associated phycobiliprotein groups. These groups give phycoerythrin its bright red color and make it particularly effective at absorbing light in a narrow range of wavelengths.

Phycoerythrin plays an important role in algae photosynthesis because it absorbs light in the spectral range that is not absorbed by chlorophyll. This pigment also has antioxidant properties and helps protect algae from damage caused by light.

In addition, phycoerythrin is used as a dye in the food and cosmetic industries. It can also be used as an indicator in biological and medical research.

In general, phycoerythrin is a unique pigment that plays an important role in the life processes of algae and has a wide range of applications in various industries and sciences.