Chromatophores in chameleons serve several functions. Which of the following is NOT one of their primary roles?

Chromatophores in chameleons serve several functions. Which of the following is NOT one of their primary roles?

• A. Digestion
• B. Temperature regulation
• C. Communication
• D. Camouflage

Answer: (A)

Chromatophores are pigment-containing cells in the skin that change how light is absorbed and reflected, enabling rapid color and pattern changes. This capability mainly supports camouflage—helping the chameleon blend with its surroundings—and communication, such as signaling mood, aggression, or mating readiness to other individuals. They can also influence heat absorption: darker colors can take in more heat, while lighter colors reflect more, aiding the animal in thermoregulation. Digestion, on the other hand, is a digestive process that occurs in the gut and has no role for pigment cells in the skin.

Chromatophores are pigment-containing cells in the skin that change how light is absorbed and reflected, enabling rapid color and pattern changes. This capability mainly supports camouflage—helping the chameleon blend with its surroundings—and communication, such as signaling mood, aggression, or mating readiness to other individuals. They can also influence heat absorption: darker colors can take in more heat, while lighter colors reflect more, aiding the animal in thermoregulation. Digestion, on the other hand, is a digestive process that occurs in the gut and has no role for pigment cells in the skin.