Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a high-value carotenoid derived from Haematococcus pluvialis, a freshwater green microalga belonging to the Haematococcaceae family. Similar to a pearl, astaxanthin is a product of an organism's exposure to stress. The microalgae's green vegetative cells transform into red cysts when exposed to stress factors such as high temperatures, nutrient deficiencies, and water conditions.