Mammalian colors and color patterns are some of the most diverse and conspicuous traits found in nature and have been widely studied from genetic/developmental and evolutionary perspectives. In this review we first discuss the proximate causes underlying variation in pigment type (i.e., color) and pigment distribution (i.e., color pattern) and highlight both processes as having a distinct developmental basis. Then, using multiple examples, we discuss ultimate factors that have driven the evolution of coloration differences in mammals, which include background matching, intra- and interspecific signaling, and physiological influences. Throughout, we outline bridges between developmental and functional investigatory approaches that help broaden knowledge of mammals' memorable external appearances, and we point out areas for future interdisciplinary research.

中文翻译：

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哺乳动物的着色。

哺乳动物的颜色和颜色模式是自然界中发现的最多样化和最显着的特征，并且已经从遗传/发育和进化的角度进行了广泛的研究。在这篇综述中，我们首先讨论导致颜料类型（即颜色）和颜料分布（即颜色图案）变化的根本原因，并强调这两个过程具有独特的发展基础。然后，使用多个示例，我们讨论了驱动哺乳动物颜色差异演变的最终因素，其中包括背景匹配，种内和种间信号传导以及生理影响。在整个过程中，我们概述了发展和功能研究方法之间的桥梁，这些方法有助于拓宽哺乳动物令人难忘的外观知识，