The process in which a relatively unspecialized cell acquires specialized features of a melanocyte.

The accumulation of pigment in an organism, tissue or cell, either by increased deposition or by increased number of cells.

The developmental process that results in the deposition of coloring matter in an organism, tissue or cell.

The developmental process that results in the deposition of coloring matter in an organism, tissue or cell.

Any process that modulates the frequency, rate or extent of the developmental process that results in the deposition of coloring matter in an organism.

The process in which a relatively unspecialized cell acquires the specialized features of an iridophore. Iridophores are pigment cells derived from the neural crest. They contain guanidine or other purine crystals deposited in stacks called reflecting platets or iridisomes. This gives them a silver, gold, or iridescent appearance.

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of a pigment cell over time, from its formation to the mature structure. Cell development does not include the steps involved in committing a cell to a pigment cell fate.

The orderly movement of melanocytes from one site to another, often during the development of a multicellular organism. A melanocyte is a pigment cell derived from the neural crest. It contains melanin-filled pigment granules, which give a brown to black appearance.

Any process by which the numbers of cells of a particular type or in a tissue are maintained.