Pronunciation: [jˌuːmɪlˈanɪk] (IPA) 
Eumelanic is a term used to describe the darkest form of melanin, a pigment that gives color to hair, skin, and eyes. The correct pronunciation of eumelanic is /juːmɛlænɪk/. The word is spelled using the prefix "eu-", meaning good or true, and "melanic", referring to the presence of melanin in the substance. The IPA represents the pronunciation of the word with the "yoo" sound at the beginning and the "a" sound in the suffix.
Eumelanic is an adjective that refers to the presence or abundance of a dark pigment called eumelanin in an organism's body or integumentary system. Eumelanin is one of the two types of melanin, the pigment responsible for the coloration of hair, skin, feathers, scales, and other biological structures in animals.
When an individual or species is described as eumelanic, it indicates that they have a relatively high concentration of eumelanin, resulting in a darker appearance. This can manifest in various ways, such as having dark hair, fur, or feathers, as well as darker skin or scales. Eumelanic traits often confer advantages or adaptations, playing significant roles in camouflage, UV protection, thermoregulation, and visual communication.
The term eumelanic is commonly used in the fields of biology, zoology, and evolution to describe the phenotypic variations seen in different populations or species. It is particularly relevant when studying the adaptive significance of coloration patterns and their role in natural selection and evolution. By identifying and understanding the distribution and expression of eumelanic traits, scientists can gain insights into the ecological and evolutionary processes shaping the diversity of living organisms.
The term "eumelanic" has a Greek origin. It is derived from two Greek words: "eu" meaning "good" or "well", and "melas" meaning "black" or "dark". Therefore, "eumelanic" combines these elements to refer to something that has a good or well-developed black or dark pigment.
