Carotenoids in sea urchins

Authors

Coleen C. Suckling, University of Rhode Island
Maeve S. Kelly, The Scottish Association for Marine Science
Rachael C. Symonds, Liverpool John Moores University

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

1-1-2020

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.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Developments in Aquaculture and Fisheries Science

Volume

43

Citation/Publisher Attribution

Suckling, Coleen C., Maeve S. Kelly, and Rachael C. Symonds. "Carotenoids in sea urchins." Developments in Aquaculture and Fisheries Science 43, (2020). doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-819570-3.00011-1.