#skin

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Why snakes shed an outer layer of skin

Snakes periodically replace the outer layer of their skin through shedding, or ecdysis. A new layer forms beneath the old one before separation occurs. This renewal supports growth and replaces worn surfaces; snakes do not simply keep stretching the same outer covering indefinitely as their bodies become larger.

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octopus

How an octopus changes its skin pattern

Octopuses can rapidly alter visible skin colour by expanding and contracting pigment-containing structures called chromatophores. Muscles spread each pigment sac to make its colour more visible, then allow it to shrink. Other skin structures reflect light, helping create patterns used in camouflage and signalling.

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