Which algae is commonly known as Irish moss and is rich in beta-carotene and calcium?

Which algae is commonly known as Irish moss and is rich in beta-carotene and calcium?

• A. Brown Algae
• B. Green Algae
• C. Blue-Green Algae
• D. Red Algae

Answer: (D)

Irish moss is a red alga, specifically a Rhodophyte such as Chondrus crispus. The red color comes from phycoerythrin, a pigment that dominates over chlorophyll in these algae. Red algae are known for their mineral content, including calcium, and many also contain carotenoids like beta-carotene, which makes them a good source of both calcium and beta-carotene. The other groups—brown algae with fucoxanthin, green algae with their green pigment mix, and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) with different characteristics—do not align with the common name Irish moss or its typical nutrient profile. So the one described is red algae.

Irish moss is a red alga, specifically a Rhodophyte such as Chondrus crispus. The red color comes from phycoerythrin, a pigment that dominates over chlorophyll in these algae. Red algae are known for their mineral content, including calcium, and many also contain carotenoids like beta-carotene, which makes them a good source of both calcium and beta-carotene. The other groups—brown algae with fucoxanthin, green algae with their green pigment mix, and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) with different characteristics—do not align with the common name Irish moss or its typical nutrient profile. So the one described is red algae.