Carotenes are specifically found in vegetables and fruits, and beta-carotene in those of orange or dark green color. Astaxanthin is responsible for the intense reddish-orange color of lobster, salmon, some algae, and is the red-pink pigment that gives flamingos their characteristic color. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid belonging to the group of carotenoids called xanthophylls and unlike other carotenoids found in plants, astaxanthin is more widely distributed in marine organisms, which obtain it through the consumption of microalgae. This carotenoid does not have provitamin A properties. Solgar 5 mg Astaxanthin provides astaxanthin obtained from Haematococcus pluvialis, a freshwater algae. Usage: It is recommended to take 1 softgel capsule per day. Ingredients: Astaxanthin (from H. pluvialis), Sunflower seed oil; Softgel capsule: gelatin (from bovine), vegetable glycerin (palm seed oil and coconut oil).