The biosynthesis of astaxanthin. XVIII. The metabolism of the carotenoids in the prawn, Penaeus japonicus bate.

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.