Biological Pigments
Biological pigments are natural substances produced by living organisms that give color to various parts of plants, animals, and microorganisms. These pigments play essential roles in processes such as photosynthesis, where chlorophyll absorbs sunlight, and in melanin, which provides color to skin and protects against UV radiation.
Different types of biological pigments include carotenoids, which are responsible for the orange and yellow colors in many fruits and vegetables, and anthocyanins, which give red, purple, and blue hues to flowers and fruits. These pigments not only contribute to the visual appeal of organisms but also serve important ecological functions.