Question

Diatoms are mostly golden-brown in colour because of which of the following pigment ?

• A. Melanin
• B. Betalains
• C. Fucoxanthin
• D. Anthocyanins

Hint:

Diatoms → Golden-brown color → Due to Fucoxanthin pigment.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Diatoms are microscopic algae that possess unique pigments responsible for their coloration. These pigments not only determine their appearance but also play a role in photosynthesis.

Step 1: Understanding diatoms.
Diatoms are unicellular algae found in aquatic environments. They contain chlorophyll for photosynthesis but also have accessory pigments.

Step 2: Role of fucoxanthin.
Fucoxanthin is a carotenoid pigment that masks the green color of chlorophyll and gives diatoms their characteristic golden-brown color.

Step 3: Evaluating other pigments.

• Melanin – Found in animals, not algae.
• Betalains – Found in plants like beetroot.
• Anthocyanins – Responsible for red/blue coloration in plants.

Step 4: Final evaluation.
Thus, fucoxanthin is the correct pigment responsible for the golden-brown color. Final Conclusion:
Hence, the correct answer is (3).