How does a chameleon change its skin color?

How does a chameleon change its skin color?

• A. It changes color due to moisture levels.
• B. A chameleon changes its skin color through the expansion and contraction of special pigment cells called chromatophores, primarily for communication, camouflage, and temperature regulation.
• C. It changes color randomly
• D. It changes color only during full moon.

Answer: (B)

Color change in chameleons happens by adjusting pigment cells in the skin called chromatophores. When the animal receives signals from the nervous system or hormones, muscles around these cells contract or expand, spreading or gathering the pigment so the color we see changes. The visible color can be influenced further by light-reflecting structures beneath the pigment, which helps produce additional hues like blues and greens. This is a deliberate, rapid process used for communication, camouflage, and helping regulate temperature by changing how much light is absorbed. Moisture levels, random changes, or changes tied to a full moon don’t drive this pigment movement.