Variation in the xanthophyll and carotene content of lucerne, clovers and grasses

The xanthophyll and carotene contents of eleven lucerne clones were found to be higher during September and November than during June and July. Both carotenoids reached a maximum at or before first flowering and then declined as blossoming progressed. Lutein decreased in November while violaxanthin increased. Six grasses and four legumes were analysed for the principal leaf xanthophylls, lutein, violaxanthin and neoxanthin, as well as total xanthophyll and carotene.