What is the common outcome when plants cannot produce carotenoids?

When plants are unable to produce carotenoids, the common outcome is that they experience chlorophyll degradation and bleaching. Carotenoids play a crucial role in photosynthesis and photoprotection. They absorb light energy that chlorophyll does not, and they also help to protect chlorophyll from damage caused by excess sunlight or oxidative stress. Without sufficient carotenoids, chlorophyll can break down, leading to bleaching and a significant reduction in the plant's ability to photosynthesize effectively. This can impair the plant's overall health and growth, resulting in a visual loss of green pigmentation and weakened vitality.