Which pigment is known for its orange color and is an accessory pigment in plants?

The pigment known for its orange color and recognized as an accessory pigment in plants is carotene. Carotene plays a vital role in photosynthesis by capturing light energy and transferring it to chlorophyll, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the photosynthetic process. These pigments are particularly important in the light-harvesting complexes of plants, helping to absorb wavelengths of light that chlorophyll alone might not effectively utilize.

Carotene is also significant because it contributes to the color of various fruits and vegetables, providing the characteristic orange hue found in foods like carrots and sweet potatoes. This pigment not only aids in photosynthesis but also has health benefits for humans, such as acting as a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function. These properties make carotene an essential accessory pigment in the plant kingdom.