What are the pigmented cells in fish and amphibians that reflect light called?

The pigmented cells in fish and amphibians that reflect light are known as chromatophores. These specialized cells contain different pigments and can change color by expanding or contracting, which allows the organism to adjust its coloration. This is particularly important for camouflage, thermoregulation, and communication with others of the same species. Chromatophores can contain various types of pigments, including melanins, which provide black or brown colors, as well as other pigments that contribute to a range of colors.

Melanocytes are a different type of cell specifically responsible for producing melanin, primarily found in the skin of mammals and not the reflective characteristics discussed in this context. Carotenoids are pigments generally obtained from the diet and are responsible for the yellow, orange, and red colors in some animals, but they do not reflect light in the manner that chromatophores do. Hematocytes refer to blood cells and are involved in the immune response, not in pigmentation or light reflection. Thus, chromatophores are the correct answer as they are specialized for reflecting light and facilitating color change in these organisms.