countershading
/ˈkaʊntərˌʃeɪdɪŋ/
noun
- A type of coloring in animals where the back is darker than the belly, helping them blend in with their surroundings and avoid predators.
- Countershading is common in marine animals like sharks and penguins.
- Many fish use countershading to hide from predators: dark on top, light on the bottom.
- The deer's countershading makes it harder to see when light comes from above.