Bacterial photosynthesis is a process used by certain bacteria to convert light energy into chemical energy. Unlike plants, which use chlorophyll, these bacteria often contain different pigments, such as bacteriochlorophyll, that allow them to capture light. This process occurs in specialized structures within the bacteria, enabling them to produce energy-rich compounds from carbon dioxide and water. There are two main types of bacterial photosynthesis: anoxygenic and oxygenic. Anoxygenic photosynthesis does not produce oxygen and is typically found in purple and green sulfur bacteria. In contrast, oxygenic photosynthesis, which is more common in plants and cyanobacteria, releases oxygen as a byproduct.