Melanism

Article summary

Melanism is a congenital high level of melanin in an organism resulting in dark pigmentation. In contrast with albinism, which is generally caused by a mutation which is harmful to overall survival, melanistic morphs coexist stably with others in many species, such as squirrels and leopards. (Leptailurus serval) (Sciurus carolinensis) s (Cavia porcellus) are rare, and are used in rituals by Andean curanderos. Pseudomelanism, also called abundism, is another variant of pigmentation, identifiable by dark spots or enlarged stripes, which cover a large part of the body of an animal, making it appear melanistic. Melanosis is hyperpigmentation associated with increased melanin, which occurs as part of a number of conditions, some are benign (like freckles). Others are (or can become) malignant. Some conditions are congenital and others are acquired.

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