Blue sharks can change colour, say scientists

, which helps to produce the shark’s characteristic colour.

How it works

The guanine crystals absorb the color blue (To make the shark blue) while melanosomes absorb other colors. Professor Dean from the City University said: “These components are packed into separate cells, reminiscent of bags filled with mirrors and bags of black absorbers, but kept in close association so they work together. When you combine these materials together, you also create a powerful ability to produce and change colour.” After this, the shark will become blue.

Who discovered it?

Dr. Viktoriia Kamska and Professor Mason Dean’s team were investigating the blue shark’s body and noticed tooth-like scales on it. When they looked closer, they realized that these teeth-like scales contained unique nanostructures. The nanostructures contained guanine crystals and melanosomes. They also noticed that if the spacing between these was changed, could be a different color. ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎

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