The Biosynthesis of Astaxanthin—XVIII The Metabolism of the Carotenoids in the Prawn, Penaeus japonicus Bate

Authors

Yoshito Tanaka, Kagoshima University
Matsuguchi, Kagoshima University
Teruhisa Katayama, Kagoshima University
K. L. Simpson, University of Rhode Island
C. O. Chichester, University of Rhode Island

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

1-1-1976

Abstract

The biosynthesis of astaxanthin in the prawn was further studied using pure carotenoids and preparations obtained from natural sources. Zeaxanthin, obtained from the Chinese lantern, was fed to the prawn, Penaeus japonicus Bate. Astaxanthin was biosynthesized from zeaxanthin, thus indicating the existence of a second pathway to astaxanthin in the prawn. Canthaxanthin and astaxanthin from crab waste were respectively metabolized to and absorbed as body astaxanthin in the prawn. Pigmented preparations from corn gluten, alfalfa and Spirulina (blue-green alga) were found to increase the body astaxanthin to various degrees. © 1976, The Japanese Society of Fisheries Science. All rights reserved.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

NIPPON SUISAN GAKKAISHI

Volume

42

Issue

2

Citation/Publisher Attribution

Tanaka, Yoshito, Matsuguchi, Teruhisa Katayama, K. L. Simpson, and C. O. Chichester. "The Biosynthesis of Astaxanthin—XVIII The Metabolism of the Carotenoids in the Prawn, Penaeus japonicus Bate." NIPPON SUISAN GAKKAISHI 42, 2 (1976): 197-202. doi: 10.2331/suisan.42.197.