Dark Pigmented Integument

a The stratum basale contains melanocytes that spread there melanin to adjacent keratinocytes cells.
b The detached surface appears dark because the dead condensed cornified cells of the stratum corneum is filled with keratin and melanin.
c Melanocytes have spread their melanin to many of the cells of the stratum germinativum.
d Note the pink collagen fibers that make up part of the basement membrane.
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