We have investigated wavelength-dependent light scattering in biomimetic structures with
short-range order. Coherent backscattering experiments are performed to measure the
transport mean free path over a wide wavelength range. Overall scattering strength is
reduced significantly due to short-range order and near-field effects. Our analysis explains
why single scattering of light is dominant over multiple scattering in similar biological
structures and is responsible for color generation.