Data from: Melanin-based colouration and host-parasite interactions under global change

The role of parasites in shaping melanin-based colour polymorphism, and
the consequences of colour polymorphism for disease resistance, remain
debated. Here we review recent evidence of the links between melanin-based
colouration and the behavioural and immunological defences of vertebrates
against their parasites. First we propose that (1) differences between
colour morphs can result in variable exposure to parasites, either
directly (certain colours might be more or less attractive to parasites)
or indirectly (variations in behaviour and encounter probability). Once
infected, we propose that (2) immune variation between differently
coloured individuals might result in different abilities to cope with
parasite infection. We then discuss (3) how these different abilities
could translate in variable sexual and natural selection in environments
varying in parasite pressure. Finally, we address (4) the potential role
of parasites in the maintenance of melanin-based colouration polymorphism,
especially in the context of global change and multiple stressors in
human-altered environments. Because global change will likely affect both
colouration and the spread of parasitic diseases in the next decades,
future studies should take into account melanin-based colouration to
better predict the evolutionary responses of animals to changing disease
risk in human-altered environments.