What is the Difference Between Phycocyanin and Phycoerythrin?

Phycocyanin and phycoerythrin are both photosynthetic pigments found in cyanobacteria, rhodophytes, cryptomonads, and cyanelles, which are part of the phycobiliprotein family. They play a role in light harvesting and are accessory pigments to chlorophyll. The main differences between phycocyanin and phycoerythrin are:

1. Color: Phycocyanin is a blue pigment, while phycoerythrin is a red pigment.
2. Absorption Spectrum: Phycocyanin absorbs light at a wavelength of around 620-640 nm, while phycoerythrin absorbs light at a wavelength of around 550-570 nm.
3. Occurrence: Phycocyanin is primarily found in cyanobacteria, such as Spirulina platensis and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae species, while phycoerythrin is predominantly found in red algae.

Both pigments have potential health benefits as nutrient supplements and are used as natural colorants in food items and cosmetics, as well as reagents for immunological assays.

Comparative Table: Phycocyanin vs Phycoerythrin

Phycocyanin and phycoerythrin are both photosynthetic pigments found in microalgae, cyanobacteria, rhodophytes, and cryptomonads. They are part of the phycobiliprotein family and play a crucial role in capturing light for photosynthesis. Here is a table highlighting the differences between phycocyanin and phycoerythrin:

Both pigments have various applications, including serving as natural coloring agents in the food and beverage industry, as reagents in immunological assays, and for monitoring cyanobacteria biomass.