plantpigment

Plantpigment is a general term for any pigment produced by plants that affects color, light absorption, or signaling. Plantpigments include both pigments involved in photosynthesis and those used for coloration and protection. The major families are chlorophylls, carotenoids, and flavonoids (which include anthocyanins). Betalains occur in some plant lineages.

Chlorophylls enable photosynthesis by absorbing light, mainly blue and red, and by reflecting green. Carotenoids extend light capture and protect the photosynthetic apparatus by quenching excess energy and reactive oxygen species; they appear yellow, orange, or red. Flavonoids encompass a diverse range of pigments, with anthocyanins giving red to blue colors in flowers and fruits, and other flavonoids contributing yellow hues and UV protection.

Biosynthesis: chlorophylls derive from the tetrapyrrole pathway; carotenoids from the isoprenoid pathway; flavonoids from the phenylpropanoid pathway. Production is regulated by light, temperature, nutrients, developmental stage, and stress.

Functions: pigments support photosynthesis, photoprotection, and signaling. Colors attract pollinators and seed dispersers, influence plant–herbivore interactions, and can warn or camouflage tissues. Tissue-specific patterns reflect ecological and developmental needs.

Applications: plantpigments are used as natural colorants in foods and cosmetics, as markers in plant biology, and as nutraceuticals. In research, pigment changes help track photosynthetic health, pigment biosynthesis, and stress responses.

Notes: the term plantpigment is a generic label for plant-derived pigments; in ordinary usage, pigment can also refer to specific compounds such as chlorophyll or anthocyanins.