Epigenomic and epitranscriptomic methylation in animal coloration

Advances in molecular biology and sequencing technology have enabled the identification of single-nucleotide resolution of methylation and consequently inferences of its association with phenotypic traits, including coloration in animals. 

The precise molecular mechanisms remain unknown in most cases, but it is clear from the association between methylation status and gene expression that RNA and DNA methylation have a role in the manifestation of color and pattern in animals. These are involved in both dynamic color changes and those that are stable in and among individuals.

The role of methylation in the evolution of color variation has been underappreciated but is a key molecular variable involved in animal coloration.

https://www.cell.com/trends/genetics/fulltext/S0168-9525(25)00098-8

https://sciencemission.com/epigenomic-and-epitranscriptomic-methylation-to-animal-colouration