Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Mineral in Turacin Pigment
Feather pigment "turacin" contains:
- Mo
- Cu — Correct Answer
- Zn
- Mg
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Cu (Copper)
Turacin is a unique, naturally occurring porphyrin-based red feather pigment found in turacos (a group of African birds). It is the only known natural pigment that contains copper (Cu) as a metal centre.
Turacin — Key Facts
- Found in: Feathers of Turaco birds (African birds)
- Metal component: Copper (Cu)
- Turacin gives the distinctive bright red/crimson colour to turaco feathers
- It is water-soluble and washes out in heavy rain
Copper-Containing Biological Molecules
| Molecule / Enzyme | Copper Role |
|---|---|
| Cytochrome oxidase | Electron transport chain |
| Uricase | Uric acid metabolism |
| Ceruloplasmin | Copper transport protein in blood |
| Turacin | Red feather pigment in turacos |
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- Mo (Molybdenum) → deficiency causes Femoral head necrosis in chickens; toxicity causes Teartness; no feather pigment role
- Zn (Zinc) → Carbonic anhydrase, Alcohol dehydrogenase, Alkaline phosphatase; not in feather pigment
- Mg (Magnesium) → centre of chlorophyll in plants; deficiency causes Grass tetany; not in feather pigment
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
