Seaweeds & Light: A Coloring Mystery

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SUMMARY

Seaweeds exhibit a yellow-brown coloration primarily due to the absorption of blue light, which penetrates most effectively underwater. The pigments in seaweeds absorb blue wavelengths, resulting in the transmission or reflection of longer wavelengths, specifically red and yellow. This phenomenon highlights the relationship between light spectrum penetration and the visible coloration of marine algae.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of light spectrum and wavelengths
  • Basic knowledge of marine biology
  • Familiarity with photosynthetic pigments in plants
  • Concept of light absorption and reflection in aquatic environments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of chlorophyll and carotenoids in seaweed pigmentation
  • Explore the effects of light penetration on underwater ecosystems
  • Study the adaptations of marine plants to varying light conditions
  • Investigate the impact of water clarity on seaweed coloration
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Marine biologists, ecologists, students studying marine life, and anyone interested in the interactions between light and aquatic plant life.

LadiesMan
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1. Light at the blue end of the spectrum penetrates most easily underwater. Why are seaweeds often yellow-brown in colour?

Does anyone know why this phenomena occurs? Thanks
 
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Since light at the blue end of the spectrum penetrates most easily under water, it is these colours which are being absorbed by the pigments. What we see is the wavelengths that are transmitted or reflected. Therefore, it is the other end of the spectrum which we are seeing (red-yellow.)
 

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