The melanin produced by the body that is red to yellow in color is _____.

• A. pheomelanin
• B. carotene
• C. melatonin
• D. eumelanin

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the context of the question. Melanin is a pigment produced by the body that determines the color of skin, hair, and eyes. There are different types of melanin, each with distinct characteristics and colors.
2. Step 2: Review the types of melanin. The two main types are eumelanin and pheomelanin. Eumelanin is responsible for brown to black pigmentation, while pheomelanin contributes to red to yellow pigmentation.
3. Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options. Carotene is a pigment found in plants and contributes to orange coloration in humans but is not a type of melanin. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep and is unrelated to pigmentation.
4. Step 4: Focus on the correct type of melanin. Based on the description of red to yellow pigmentation, pheomelanin is the correct answer.
5. Step 5: Confirm your understanding by associating pheomelanin with its role in pigmentation, particularly in individuals with lighter hair colors like red or blonde.