Rapid changes to skin colour in many vertebrates is under the control of ________.
A) melanocyte-stimulating hormone
B) adrenocorticotropic hormone
C) thyroxine
D) melatonin

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Rapid changes in skin color are primarily controlled by the release of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) from the pituitary gland. MSH stimulates melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. MSH also affects the distribution of melanin in the skin, causing rapid changes in skin color in response to different stimuli such as stress, temperature, or mating signals. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and thyroxine can also affect skin color, but they act over a longer period and are not involved in rapid color changes. Melatonin plays a role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and has no direct effect on skin color.

Rapid Changes to Skin Colour in Many Vertebrates Is Under