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Biology

The Genetic Basis of Coat Color Polymorphism in Wild Felids

Quick fact

The melanistic (black) coat in leopards and jaguars is caused by a recessive mutation in the Agouti signaling protein (ASIP) gene, while in some other felids, a dominant mutation in the MC1R gene produces the same effect.

Why this is interesting

You've seen black panthers in movies, but did you know they are just leopards or jaguars with a genetic twist? Why do some big cats wear dark coats while others blend into golden grasslands?