The xanthophyll cycle in the alga Nannochloropsis oceanica helps it quickly respond to changes in light levels by acting as a photoprotective memory system. This cycle allows the alga to remember previous high-light exposures and adjust its photoprotective mechanisms accordingly. By studying the xanthophyll cycle, scientists found that both short-term and medium-term memory in N. oceanica are linked to this process. They also identified the specific components of the xanthophyll cycle that play a role in protecting the alga from excessive light. This research can help improve our understanding of how plants protect themselves from light stress, which could have important implications for crop productivity.