Carotenoids

Definition

Carotenoids are pigments found in many microorganisms, including bacteria. They play a vital role in photosynthesis and protection against oxidative damage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carotenoids are responsible for the red, orange, and yellow colors observed in various bacterial species.
2. They help protect microbial cells from harmful effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
3. In phototrophic bacteria, carotenoids aid in light absorption for photosynthesis.
4. Specific types of carotenoids like bacterioruberin are unique to certain archaeal species.
5. The presence of carotenoids can be used as a biomarker to identify and classify different bacterial strains.

Review Questions

• What role do carotenoids play in protecting bacterial cells?
• How do carotenoids contribute to the process of photosynthesis in phototrophic bacteria?
• Why can the presence of specific carotenoids be useful for bacterial classification?

Related terms

Photosynthesis:

A process by which phototrophic organisms convert light energy into chemical energy.

Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS): Highly reactive chemicals formed from oxygen that can damage cellular components.

Bacteriorhodopsin: A protein used by Archaea that acts similarly to chlorophyll in capturing light energy.