Stručni rad
How and why chameleons change color: morphological, physiological, and molecular mechanisms
Dražen Đuričić
orcid.org/0000-0002-8013-2091
; Veterinarski fakultet Sveučilišta u Zagrebu, Zagreb, Hrvatska
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* Dopisni autor.
Sažetak
Chameleons are unique among reptiles, and indeed in the entire animal kingdom, due to their ability to project an exceptionally long and powerful tongue to capture prey, move their eyes independently, and rapidly and reversibly change skin color. Color change is a complex biological process that extends beyond simple camouflage and plays a crucial role in thermoregulation, social communication, territorial behavior, and reproduction. This phenomenon results from the specific morphological organization of the skin, which consists of multiple layers of specialized cellscontaining different types of chromatophores. The
superficial layers include melanophores, xanthophores, and erythrophores, while deeper layers contain iridophores with guanine nanocrystals responsible for structural light reflection. Color change is based on dynamic alterations in pigment distribution within cells as well as changes in the spatial arrangement of nanocrystals, which modify the reflected light spectrum. The process is regulated by complex neurohumoral mechanisms involving both the nervous system and hormonal control. Modern research methods, including high-resolution microscopy and molecular analyses, have significantly advanced the understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. From an evolutionary perspective, the
ability to change color represents an adaptive advantage that enhances survival and reproductive success in chameleons.
Ključne riječi
chameleons; color change; chromatophores; camouflage; thermoregulation
Hrčak ID:
345868
URI
Datum izdavanja:
26.3.2026.
Posjeta: 215 *