What is the Difference Between Anthocyanin and Anthocyanidin?

Anthocyanin and anthocyanidin are both types of plant pigments found in fruits, flowers, stems, leaves, and roots, mostly in higher plants. They belong to the category of bioflavonoids and share a common structure, the flavylium ion. The main difference between the two lies in the sugar content and how they are derived:

• Anthocyanin: These are plant pigments that are derived from anthocyanidin by coupling sugar molecules. Anthocyanins are formed by the addition of sugars to different side groups of the flavylium ion, giving rise to a vast range of types. They are known for their antioxidant properties and can appear as purple, blue, red, or black pigments, depending on the pH.
• Anthocyanidin: These are sugar-free analogues of anthocyanins. Anthocyanidins are found in plants without sugar attached to the flavylium ion. Their color changes according to the pH, and they can appear as blue, green-blue, purple, or red. In acidic conditions (pH<7), anthocyanidins are colored, but they become colorless in basic conditions. Approximately 20% of anthocyanin pigments are derived from methylated anthocyanidins, such as malvidin, peonidin, and petunidin.

In summary, the primary difference between anthocyanin and anthocyanidin is that anthocyanins are formed by coupling sugar molecules to anthocyanidins, making them sugary plant pigments. Both compounds share a common basic core structure, the flavylium ion, and have antioxidant properties.

Comparative Table: Anthocyanin vs Anthocyanidin

Anthocyanins and anthocyanidins are both plant pigments belonging to the category of bioflavonoids, found mainly in fruits, flowers, leaves, stems, and roots. They share a common structure, the flavylium ion, but there are key differences between the two:

Both compounds are pH-dependent and possess antioxidant properties. They play a role in the process of pollination and act as larvae repellents to protect the plant.