Which algae is known as Irish moss and contains beta-carotene and calcium?

Which algae is known as Irish moss and contains beta-carotene and calcium?

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

Answer: (C)

Irish moss is a red alga. Red algae, classified as Rhodophyta, include species like Chondrus crispus that are traditionally called Irish moss and are known for containing minerals such as calcium as well as carotenoids like beta-carotene. The red pigmentation comes from phycoerythrin, which distinguishes them from other colored algae. Brown algae are rich in fucoxanthin and appear brown, green algae are, as the name suggests, green due to chlorophyll, and blue-green algae are now known as cyanobacteria. Their color and composition don’t match Irish moss, which is why red algae is the best fit.

Irish moss is a red alga. Red algae, classified as Rhodophyta, include species like Chondrus crispus that are traditionally called Irish moss and are known for containing minerals such as calcium as well as carotenoids like beta-carotene. The red pigmentation comes from phycoerythrin, which distinguishes them from other colored algae. Brown algae are rich in fucoxanthin and appear brown, green algae are, as the name suggests, green due to chlorophyll, and blue-green algae are now known as cyanobacteria. Their color and composition don’t match Irish moss, which is why red algae is the best fit.