Rhodophyta are red in colour due to

Options

A. Carotenes
B. Xanthophylls
C. Phycoerythrin
D. Phycocyanin

Answer

To answer the question "Rhodophyta are red in colour due to," we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify Rhodophyta**:
- Rhodophyta, commonly known as red algae, are a group of algae characterized by their red color.

**Hint**: Remember that Rhodophyta is the scientific name for red algae.

2. **Understand the Coloration**:
- The red color of Rhodophyta is primarily due to the presence of specific pigments.

**Hint**: Think about what pigments might be responsible for the color in plants and algae.

3. **Identify the Key Pigment**:
- The main pigment responsible for the red color in Rhodophyta is called phycoerythrin.

**Hint**: Focus on the term "phycoerythrin" as it directly relates to the red pigmentation.

4. **Function of Phycoerythrin**:
- Phycoerythrin absorbs light in the blue-green spectrum and reflects red light, which is why the algae appear red.

**Hint**: Consider how light absorption and reflection work in terms of color perception.

5. **Eliminate Other Pigments**:
- Other pigments such as carotene (orange), xanthophyll (yellow), and phycocyanine (blue) do not contribute to the red color of Rhodophyta.

**Hint**: Compare the colors of these pigments to understand why they do not contribute to the red coloration.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the red color of Rhodophyta is due to the abundant presence of phycoerythrin.

**Hint**: Summarize the key points to reinforce the answer.

### Final Answer:
Rhodophyta are red in color due to the presence of the pigment **phycoerythrin**.