Chameleon Changes Colour: How does it change the colour?

Chameleon have the habit of changing its color, as per the situation and environment. Many of us, might be wondering, to know the reason behind this unique nature of this reptile.

The reason is quite interesting. It is actually adapting itself to the changing environment and safety from the predators.

Not only chameleons, we find many other creatures in this world tend to adopt numerous tricks to save their lives. Few of them showcase themselves to be dead, while few other leave a strong smell to keep the enemies at bay. Similarly, a chameleon changes its color.

Today, lets learn as to how chameleon change color. This reptile changes its color to adjust its body temperature to the outside temperature. They are able to change color of their skin by the changing the arrangement of certain skin called iridophores. These cells have got nanocrystals, which reflect the light of different wavelengths, depending on their physical orientation. Thus, It all depends on the body temperature of the chameleon. With the change in the temperature, chameleon's body grows as well as contracts. When the body's hormones are high, the skin color of the chameleon changes into dark brown, yellow, white or similar other colors. Thus, chameleons change color by controlling their body temperature.