Pigment can be found in several layers of the epidermis. In which layer would you expect to find the cells that produce melanin? Pigment can be found in several layers of the epidermis. In which layer would you expect to find the cells that produce melanin? stratum granulosum stratum basale stratum lucidum stratum spinosum

Stratum basale layer of epidermis produces melanin pigment.

Explanation:

The epidermis is composed of mainly four layers. In some areas like palm and foot, they contain five layers - stratum granulosum. All the layers are avascular i. e. lack of blood vessels.

The stratum basale cell is the deep layer of the epidermis. It is a single layer made of basal cells. The basal layer produces the keratinocytes. The keratinocytes divide mitotically and migrate to the upper layers. The keratinocytes provide hardness to the nail and skin, also make the skin waterproof.

Another two types of cells are present in the stratum basale - Merkel cell and melanocyte cell. Merkel cells provide sensory stimulation to the skin. Melanocyte cell produces pigment melanin.

Melanocyte gives color to skin, hair. It spreads from stratum basale to the upper layer of the skin called stratum corneum. Melanin pigment protects the skin from the ultraviolet radiation of the sun.