Аннотация:We elucidate the peculiarities of express analysis of secondary carotenoids from microalgae and their
preliminary identification using TLC and UV-Vis spectroscopy with emphasis on biotechnologically
significant producers of the value-added pigment astaxanthin. Advantages and limitations of the
method are described to underline the value of TLC as a potential companion method to mainstream
separation techniques such as HPLC. Special attention is paid to common errors and pitfalls of the
method and possible work-arounds, as well as to overall strategy of the analysis, sample preparation,
and material selection.