Question

Which of the following are responsible for the red colour of tomato?
A. Phycocyanin
B. Phycoerythrin
C. Lycopene
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: It is a carotenoid. It is also used as supplements that may have protective effects against prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Complete answer:
To answer this problem, first, we need to learn about the photosynthetic pigments in plants. Photosynthetic pigments are found in the thylakoid membranes. Photosynthetic pigments in higher plants include chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenes and xanthophylls. Plant pigments are colored substances produced by plants and are important for the growth, regulation, and development of photosynthesis.

Now, let us find the solution from the given options -
The blue pigment, phycocyanin, is found in blue-green algae and cyanobacteria. Phycoerythrin, a red pigment, is found in red algae usually referred to as rhodophytes.
Phycoerythrin (PE) is a red protein pigment complex formed by the light-harvesting family of phycobiliproteins. This is found in red algae and cryptophytes as a supplement for the main chlorophyll pigments necessary for photosynthesis.
Lycopene is found in the tomato species. It is a carotenoid pigment of bright red colour present in tomatoes and other red vegetables and fruits, such as watermelons, red carrots, and papayas.

Thus, the right answer is option C. i.e., Lycopene.

Note: Cyanobacteria and red algae have phycocyanin and allophycocyanin as an accessory pigment for the absorption of orange light. These do have a red pigment called phycoerythrin, which absorbs green light and expands the range of photosynthesis. Lycopene is a red coloured carotenoid found in vegetables.