Some naturally occurring monosaccharides

sugar sources

L-arabinose mesquite gum, wheat bran

D-ribose all living cells; as component of ribonucleic acid

D-xylose corncobs, seed hulls, straw

D-ribulose as an intermediate in photosynthesis

2-deoxy-D-ribose as constituent of deoxyribonucleic acid

D-galactose lactose, agar, gum arabic, brain glycolipids

D-glucose sucrose, cellulose, starch, glycogen

D-mannose seeds, ivory nut

D-fructose sucrose, artichokes, honey

L-fucose marine algae, seaweed

L-rhamnose poison-ivy blossom, oak bark

D-mannoheptulose avocado

D-altroheptulose numerous plants