Background_adaptation Chromatophore

zebrafish chromatophores mediate background adaptation on exposure dark (top) , light environments (bottom).

most fish, reptiles , amphibians undergo limited physiological colour change in response change in environment. type of camouflage, known background adaptation, commonly appears slight darkening or lightening of skin tone approximately mimic hue of immediate environment. has been demonstrated background adaptation process vision-dependent (it appears animal needs able see environment adapt it), , melanin translocation in melanophores major factor in colour change. animals, such chameleons , anoles, have highly developed background adaptation response capable of generating number of different colours rapidly. have adapted capability change colour in response temperature, mood, stress levels, , social cues, rather mimic environment.