Coloration in Mammals

Abstract

Mammalian colors and color patterns are some of the most diverse and conspicuous traits found in nature and have been widely studied from genetic/developmental and evolutionary perspectives. In this review we first discuss the proximate causes underlying variation in pigment type (i.e., color) and pigment distribution (i.e., color pattern) and highlight both processes as having a distinct developmental basis. Then, using multiple examples, we discuss ultimate factors that have driven the evolution of coloration differences in mammals, which include background matching, intra- and interspecific signaling, and physiological influences. Throughout, we outline bridges between developmental and functional investigatory approaches that help broaden knowledge of mammals' memorable external appearances, and we point out areas for future interdisciplinary research.

Figure 1.. Selected Species of Mammals That Are Currently Being Used to Further Understanding of Developmental^a and Evolutionary^b Mechanisms Driving Coloration in Mammals.

Top left: African striped grass mouse Lemniscomys pumilio^a; top right: snowshoe hare Lepus americanus^a,b; middle left: oldfield mouse Peromyscus polionotus ^a,b; middle right: Preuss’s guenon Cercopithecus preussi^b; bottom left: plains zebra Equus quagga^b; bottom right: melanistic gray squirrel Sciurus carolinensis^a (photographs from WikiMedia).