Melanism is hereditary genetic mutation that results in the development of a dark-colored pigment, melanin, in the skin. It is the opposite of albinism, however unlike albinism, it's not thought to occur in humans. The result? unique and beautiful all-black animals, serving as stark reminders of the diversity of nature, for us all to admire and enjoy:
Melanistic wolves are much less common than their white, gray or brown counterparts.
This Ayam Cemani rooster is from a rare Indonesian breed. Specimens cost some $2,500 apiece.
There are 12 different species of feline prone to melanism. This is a serval.
This jaguar has incomplete melanism - it's only partially black.
A rather unique-looking giraffe!
Although melanism usually arises as a result of environmental conditions, that isn't always the case. Flamingos are a good example.
A royal penguin with melanism.
Have you ever seen a deer that looks like this?
Even domestic animals, such as this Pomeranian, are affected by melanism.
A squirrel that's this color is certainly a rare sight!
Melanism skips a generation, so this elephant's grandparents would have carried the gene.
An all-black butterfly is a beautiful creature.
Over time, new cases have been found in species that were thought not to have melanism.
Reptiles actually benefit from melanism because black is a poor light reflector, meaning their bodies retain heat better.
Melanism exists both on land and in water, as this goldfish shows.
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