Nature is diverse, complex, and astonishing. No matter how much we think we know about our planet, nature always finds a way to surprise us with its creativity and uniqueness.
You have surely heard of albino animals before, but did you know that there are melanistic animals as well? These animals are black instead of their intended color!
Melanism is a rare genetic mutation, the opposite of albinism and leucism, as it causes too much melanin or dark pigment. It is a result of a mutation of different genes and is found in many different species, including amphibians, reptiles, and mammals.
Melanistic animals look gorgeous, and their unique beauty reminds us of the power and imagination of Nature once more!
According to scientists, the dark color helps animals easily camouflage in their natural habitats. Therefore, melanism is a good thing in animals.
Melanism in humans is usually very noticeable and appears in dark patches on various skin areas.
There is also a condition known as pseudo-melanism or abundism, that can cause animals to appear darker than they should be. The spots and stripes are larger than usual, and the animal appears much darker.
Pigmentation can be of various types, such as erythrism(extra red and orange pigment), xanthism(extra yellow pigment combined with a lack of other pigmentation), and axanthism( lack of yellow pigmentation).
Nature is simply magnificent!
Sources:
www.thefactsite.com
www.theweathernetwork.com
acmcr.org
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