Chromatophores
Chromatophores (pronunciation: kroh-MA-toh-fohrz, from the Greek chroma meaning color and phoros meaning bearing) are cells that produce color, found in a wide range of animals including but not limited to fish, reptiles, and cephalopods. They are largely responsible for the skin and eye color in cold-blooded animals and are generated in the neural crest during embryonic development.
Types of Chromatophores
There are several types of chromatophores, each responsible for a different color. These include:
- Melanophores: These cells contain melanin, which gives a brown or black color.
- Xanthophores and Erythrophores: These cells contain carotenoids and pteridines, which give a yellow or red color.
- Iridophores and Leucophores: These cells contain guanine crystals, which give a reflective or white color.
- Cyanophores: These cells, found in some species of fish, contain cyan biochromes, which give a blue color.
Function
Chromatophores are controlled by the nervous system and hormones, allowing animals to change their color and pattern rapidly. This can be used for a variety of purposes, including camouflage, communication, and temperature regulation.
In Humans
In humans, the equivalent cells are called melanocytes, which are responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. Unlike in cold-blooded animals, human chromatophores do not change color rapidly.
See Also
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