Melanic forms
Term · Chemistry · MLC-T-CHM-007148
Individuals within a species that exhibit a higher concentration of the dark pigment melanin than is typical for the population, resulting in a darker skin, fur, or plumage. This phenotype is genetically determined and can provide a selective advantage or disadvantage depending on environmental conditions, such as camouflage against predators. The classic example in ecotoxicology is the peppered moth, Biston betularia, whose melanic form became more prevalent in polluted, soot-darkened industrial areas.
| Identifier | MLC-T-CHM-007148 |
|---|---|
| Field | Chemistry |
| Subject | Chemistry and Human Health |
| References | PAC, 2009, 81, 829. 'Glossary of terms used in ecotoxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2009)' on page 913 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-08-07-09) |
Record as JSON
{
"id": "MLC-T-CHM-007148",
"term": "Melanic forms",
"field": "Chemistry",
"definition": "Individuals within a species that exhibit a higher concentration of the dark pigment melanin than is typical for the population, resulting in a darker skin, fur, or plumage. This phenotype is genetically determined and can provide a selective advantage or disadvantage depending on environmental conditions, such as camouflage against predators. The classic example in ecotoxicology is the peppered moth, Biston betularia, whose melanic form became more prevalent in polluted, soot-darkened industrial areas.",
"subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
"references": [
"PAC, 2009, 81, 829. 'Glossary of terms used in ecotoxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2009)' on page 913 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-08-07-09)"
],
"url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/melanic-forms/"
}
Record 7,574 of 13,676 in Chemistry terminology (MLC-0109). Request the full dataset.