Chromatophores

Q.  Chromatophores are
- Published on 25 Mar 16

a. Light emitting cells
b. Sound emitting cells
c. Scent cells
d. Colored pigment cells

ANSWER: Colored pigment cells
 
  • Most cephalopods possess chromatophores - colored pigment cells that expand and contract in accordance with their counterparts to produce color and pattern - which they can use in a startling array of fashions.
  • Cephalopods can change their colors and patterns in milliseconds, whether for signalling (both within the species and for warning) or active camouflage, as their chromatophores are expanded or contracted.
  • Coloration is typically stronger in near-shore species than those living in the open ocean.
  • These creatures’ (cephalopods like Octopus, Squids and Cuttlefish) change colour in response to external factors such as the presence of a predator.

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