1. an organism, especially an animal, that exhibits melanism (abnormally dark coloration due to increased melanin pigment)
Usage: biology; zoology

Examples

• The melanist leopard, also known as a black panther, has dark fur due to a genetic variation.
• Scientists study melanists to understand how pigmentation genes are expressed in wildlife.
• A melanist squirrel was spotted in the park, its dark coat contrasting with the typical gray coloring.
• The melanist form of the peppered moth became more common during the Industrial Revolution.
• Researchers documented several melanists among the local bird population.