Red algae are named so because of the predominace of

Options

A. Xanthophyll
B. r-phycoerythrin
C. Carotene
D. Chlorophyll a & b

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks why red algae are named so, specifically looking for the pigment that predominates in them.

2. **Identifying the Options**: The options provided are:
- a) Xanthophyll
- b) R-phycoerythrin
- c) Carotene
- d) Chlorophyll A and B

3. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Xanthophyll**: This is a yellow pigment primarily found in green algae, not red algae.
- **R-phycoerythrin**: This is a red pigment that is characteristic of red algae. It gives red algae their color.
- **Carotene**: This is a dark green pigment found in green algae, not in red algae.
- **Chlorophyll A and B**: Chlorophyll A is a universal pigment found in all algae, while chlorophyll B is specific to green algae.

4. **Conclusion**: The pigment that predominates in red algae, giving them their name, is R-phycoerythrin. Therefore, the correct answer is option (b) R-phycoerythrin.

**Final Answer**: Red algae are named so because of the predominance of R-phycoerythrin.

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