Fish Color Change
Fish change colors through several mechanisms:
- Chromatophores: Pigment cells that disperse or concentrate melanin, carotenoids, and pteridines.
- Reflectors: Iridophores scatter light to create iridescent colors.
- Structural changes: Altering skin ridges or scales to change patterns.
- Hormonal control: Hormones influence pigment distribution in response to environment or social cues.
- Camouflage: Matching surroundings to avoid predators.
- Communication: Signaling during mating or dominance displays.