M. Kelly, R. C. Symonds
tlooto Summary
β-Echinenone, isolated as a major carotenoid in the gonads of the edible sea urchins, is oxidatively formed from β-carotene via β-isocryptoxanthin, which affects gonad color, reproduction, development and phagocytosis in theSea urchin.
Abstract
β-Echinenone, isolated as a major carotenoid in the gonads of the edible sea urchins, is oxidatively formed from β-carotene via β-isocryptoxanthin. It affects gonad color, reproduction, development and phagocytosis in the sea urchin. Xanthophylls such as fucoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin do not affect gonad color but have significant effects on fecundity and survival of larvae. Most of the β-echinenone fraction in the gonads (ovaries and testes) consists of the 9′-cis-isomer. The cis-carotenoid may have a specific function in the sea urchin, possibly related to reproduction.
Citation format
KELLY, M.; SYMONDS, R. C. Carotenoids in sea urchins. Developments in Aquaculture and Fisheries Science, 2020.