Melanism
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Melanism
Melanism (/mɛˈlænɪzəm/; from Greek: μελανός, melanos, "black") is a development of the dark-colored pigment melanin in the skin or its appendages and is the opposite of albinism. The word 'melanism' is deduced from a Greek word that means black pigment.
Etymology
The term 'melanism' originates from the Greek word melas, which means black. It was first used in the English language in the early 19th century.
Types of Melanism
There are two types of melanism:
- Adaptive melanism - This is a form of melanism that occurs as a response to the environment. It is a survival strategy that helps the organism to blend in with its surroundings and avoid predators.
- Industrial melanism - This is a phenomenon that occurs in populations of animals living in regions where industrial pollution has caused a darkening of the environment.
Related Terms
- Melanocyte - These are cells that produce and contain melanin.
- Melanoma - This is a type of skin cancer that develops from melanocytes.
- Melanin - This is the pigment that gives skin, hair, and eyes their color.
- Albinism - This is a group of inherited disorders characterized by little or no production of the pigment melanin.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Melanism
- Wikipedia's article - Melanism
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