Bacteriochlorophyll is a pigment found in certain bacteria that allows them to perform photosynthesis, similar to how plants use chlorophyll. It captures light energy, primarily from the infrared spectrum, to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic compounds, providing energy for the bacteria. This pigment is crucial for anoxygenic photosynthesis, a process used by some bacteria that do not produce oxygen as a byproduct. Bacteriochlorophyll is typically found in environments with low light, such as deep water or sediments, where it helps these bacteria thrive by utilizing available light energy efficiently.