Laccase; part of the Pks1 gene cluster that mediates the biosynthesis of an anthraquinone derivative pigment that contributes to conidial pigmentation that provides protection from UV radiation, heat and cold stress (PubMed:20382249, PubMed:29958281). The polyketide synthase Pks1 produces 1-acetyl-2,4,6,8-tetrahydroxy-9,10-anthraquinone though condensation of acetyl-CoA with malonyl-CoA (Probable). The dehydratase EthD and the laccase Mlac1 further convert the anthraquinone derivative into the final conidial pigment (PubMed:20382249) (Probable). Binds 4 Cu cations per monomer. Pigment biosynthesis. Expressed during isotropic growth (swelling) but not during polarized growth (germ tubes and hyphae) (PubMed:20382249). Expressed exclusively in the later stages of conidiation and in blastospores when M.anisopliae is living as a saprophyte (PubMed:20382249). During infection processes, is also expressed by appressoria on the cuticle surface and hyphal bodies inside the insect haemocoel (PubMed:20382249). Reduces virulence to caterpillars because of impaired appressoria and delayed post-infection events (PubMed:20382249). Produces a yellow-conidia phenotype with increased conidial susceptibility to heat shock and UV-B stress (PubMed:20382249). Belongs to the multicopper oxidase family.