Chameleons Change Color for Communication, Not Just Camouflage

While chameleons can blend into their surroundings, their color changes are more often used for social signaling and temperature regulation. Bright colors can indicate aggression or attract a mate, while darker colors can help absorb heat. They change color using specialized cells called chromatophores, which contain different pigments. By expanding or contracting these cells, chameleons can display a wide array of colors and patterns.