What are accessory pigments What is their role in photosynthesis?

Accessory pigments are molecules in plants, algae, and some bacteria that capture light energy and assist in photosynthesis. They complement the primary pigment, chlorophyll, by absorbing different wavelengths of light, particularly in the blue and red regions, while reflecting green light. These pigments, such as carotenoids and phycobilins, help maximize the light absorption for photosynthesis, enhancing the overall efficiency of energy capture and contributing to the plant's ability to thrive in various light conditions.