noun
xanthochromism; xanthochroism; xanthism
A biological term for abnormal yellow pigmentation in animals, especially in species that are normally differently colored. Used in zoology and veterinary contexts.
このカエルの黄変症は遺伝子の突然変異によるものだ。
The xanthochromism of this frog is due to a genetic mutation.
Refers to melanism (dark variants), contrasting with the yellow pigmentation of 黄変症.
From 黄 (yellow) + 変 (change) + 症 (condition/symptom). A modern medical/biological compound, likely coined in Japanese from Sino-Japanese elements.