Thirty species of marine algae collected from different localities of Mandapam coast (Gulf
of Mannar) were analyse!! for their photosynthetic pigments suct. as chlorophyll and carotenoids.
The lowest value. of chlorophyll as well as carotenoids content were found in Rhodophyceae.
The grouping and separation of algae based on coloration has been practiced for over 100
years (Harvey, 1841). Pigments such as chlorophyll and carotenoids play important roles in
photosynthesis. Several studies have been conducted in the algal pigment by Ramus el al. (1976);
Brody el al. (1959); Jones el at. (1965) and Waaland el al. (1974). As there is no detailed work
in this line on India.l seaweeds, the present study.of thirty species of marine algae belonging to
Chlorophyta, Phaeophyta and Rhodophyta from Mandapam coast has been carried out
