pigmentasyon

Pigmentasyon refers to the natural coloration of animal or plant tissues by pigments. These pigments are chemical compounds that absorb specific wavelengths of light and reflect others, giving objects their color. The most well-known pigment in humans and many other animals is melanin, which is responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. Melanin's production is influenced by genetics and environmental factors like sun exposure.

In plants, photosynthesis relies on pigments like chlorophyll, which absorbs red and blue light and reflects green, hence the green appearance of most leaves. Other plant pigments include carotenoids (yellow, orange, red) and anthocyanins (red, purple, blue), which contribute to the vibrant colors of fruits, flowers, and autumn leaves. These pigments often serve protective functions or attract pollinators and seed dispersers.

The study of pigmentasyon is important in various fields, including biology, dermatology, and botany. Understanding pigment production and distribution can help explain phenomena such as camouflage, mimicry, and adaptation to different environments. Variations in pigmentasyon can also be indicators of health or disease in both plants and animals. For example, a loss of pigmentasyon in animals can lead to albinism, while certain color changes in plants might signal nutrient deficiencies or infections.