chromatophore

views updated Jun 08 2018

chromatophore
1. A pigment-containing cell found in the skin of many lower vertebrates (e.g. chameleon) and in the integument of crustaceans. Concentration or dispersion of the pigment granules in the cytoplasm of the cell causes the colour of the animal to alter to match its surroundings. A common type of chromatophore is the melanophore, which contains the pigment melanin.

2. A membrane-bound structure in photosynthetic bacteria that contains photosynthetic pigments. See bacteriochlorophyll.

chromatophore

views updated Jun 08 2018

chromatophore
1. A pigmented plastid of a plant cell.

2. In prokaryotic organisms, a membrane-bounded vesicle that contains photosynthetic pigment.

chromatophore

views updated May 23 2018

chromatophore (kroh-mă-tŏ-for) n. a cell containing pigment. In humans chromatophores containing melanin are found in the skin, hair, and eyes.

chromatophore

views updated Jun 27 2018

chromatophore In many animals, a cell containing pigment granules; by dispersing or contracting such granules certain animals are able to change their colour.

chromatophore

views updated May 21 2018

chromatophore In many animals, a cell containing pigment granules; by dispersing or contracting such granules certain animals are able to change their colour.

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