Melanism

Melanism is an evolutionary adaptation of an organism, leading to an increase in the number of dark pigmentation or melanin in the skin, hair or fur. This condition is found in a wide range of animal species, from mammals, birds and reptiles, to insects and even fish. Melanism has been documented in a number of species, and it is believed that this trait is favoured in environments with a lot of ambient light, as the black pigmentation provides camouflage. Melanism is also believed to have certain advantages in terms of defence from predators, and protection from the sun. It has been observed that melanistic animals have increased resistance to parasites, and show better immune system responses to certain infectious diseases. Melanism has been known to improve an organism’s survival chances and is an integral part of evolution.