Where are chlorophyll c and d primarily found?

Chlorophyll c and d are primarily found in certain groups of algae and some plant-like protists. Unlike chlorophyll a, which is universally present in almost all photosynthetic organisms, chlorophyll c is commonly associated with brown algae (such as kelp) and diatoms, while chlorophyll d has been identified in specific red algae. These chlorophyll variants play important roles in capturing light energy for photosynthesis, particularly in environments where light conditions differ from those typically encountered by land plants.

Land plants primarily rely on chlorophyll a and b, making the presence of chlorophyll c and d in algae and protists distinctive. Additionally, since animal cells do not perform photosynthesis, they would not contain these chlorophyll types. Flowering plants, which are a type of land plant, also do not utilize chlorophyll c or d. Thus, the unique presence of chlorophyll c and d in certain algae and plant-like protists is crucial for their adaptation to different light environments.