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Whose work first connected flamingo color to diet rather than natural pink feathers?
Quick Answer
Scientists studying carotenoids showed that flamingos get their pink color from food. The pigments come from algae, shrimp and other prey rich in carotenoids.
The Full Story
Flamingos are not born pink; their color depends on pigments called carotenoids in their diet. Researchers learned that when flamingos eat organisms such as algae, brine shrimp and small crustaceans, the pigments accumulate in their feathers and skin. If their diet lacks these compounds, they become paler. This makes flamingos a striking example of how diet can directly affect appearance in birds.
Key Facts
1.Flamingo color comes from carotenoids in food
2.Diet includes algae and small crustaceans
3.Young flamingos are gray or whitish at first
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why flamingos are pink is not what most people think"
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