New study finds blue sharks can change color

reveals that blue sharks can change color in response to the environment. Blue sharks are named for their vivid blue appearance, a color of exceptional rarity in the natural world of animals. Scientists found that the tooth-like scales on their skin not only produce this striking blue color but may also allow them to change color.

The research shows that blue sharks are covered in tooth-like scales that contain special internal structures, pulp-like cavities filled with guanine crystals and sacs containing melanin. The guanine crystals act as blue reflectors, while the melanin absorbs other wavelengths of color. bags filled with reflectors and sacs with black absorberskept in close association so they work together,” said Dr. Viktoriia Kamska, Professor Dean at the City University of Hong Kong, “When you combine these materials together, it also creates a powerful ability to produce and change color.”

To examine this, They also used computer simulations to understand how the structures act under different conditions. They found that color changes may occur in response to environmental factors like water pressure or humidity. “In this way, very fine scale alterations resulting from something as simple as humidity or water pressure changes could alter body color,” said Professor Dean. “These then shape how the animal camouflages or counter-shades in its natural environment.” In deeper waters, where pressure is higher, the crystals may be compressed, deepening the blue to help the shark blend in with its surroundings.

Sources:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/articles/c20nj887w5vo

https://www.nbcrightnow.com/national/scientists-find-blue-sharks-unique-skin-may-allow-them-to-change-color/article_039b0e3e-af82-551c-9784-0089d953f2ad.html