leucophore

A leucophore is a type of chromatophore, which are pigment-containing cells found in the deeper layers of animal skin. Specifically, leucophores are responsible for producing white coloration in organisms.12

Chromatophores, in general, determine an organism's color patterns by the distribution of pigments they contain. These cells can concentrate or disperse their pigments, leading to rapid changes in an animal's appearance. This ability is particularly pronounced in cephalopods and some fish, allowing them to change color in response to emotions or environmental cues. While vertebrates also exhibit color changes, they are typically slower than those seen in cephalopods. Leucophores, as white chromatophores, contribute to these color patterns by providing the white component.132