Tigers are one of the most iconic and well-known big cats in the world, known for their distinctive orange fur with black stripes. However, not all tigers have this coloration. Some have white fur with black stripes, while others have black fur with white stripes. The genetic basis of these color variations has long been a subject of fascination for scientists and the public alike.
Recently, researchers have made significant strides in understanding the genetics of tiger pelage color variations. In a study published in the journal Cell Research, a team of scientists from China and the United States identified several genes that are involved in regulating the production of pigments responsible for the color variations. They found that mutations in these genes can lead to changes in fur color and patterning.
The researchers used a combination of genetic and biochemical techniques to identify the genes involved in tiger pelage color variations. They first sequenced the genomes of several tigers with different fur colors and patterns, and then compared these genomes to identify genetic differences that were associated with the different color variations. They also analyzed the expression of genes involved in pigment production in different types of tiger skin cells.
One of the key genes identified in the study is known as SLC24A5. This gene is involved in the production of a pigment called pheomelanin, which is responsible for the orange coloration in tiger fur. The researchers found that a mutation in this gene is responsible for the white fur coloration found in some tigers.
Another gene identified in the study is known as ASIP. This gene is involved in the production of a pigment called eumelanin, which is responsible for the black coloration in tiger fur. The researchers found that a mutation in this gene is responsible for the black fur coloration found in some tigers.
In addition to these two genes, the researchers identified several other genes that are involved in regulating the production of pigments responsible for tiger pelage color variations. They found that mutations in these genes can lead to changes in fur color and patterning, including the distinctive stripe patterns found on tiger fur.
The researchers also discussed the evolutionary history of tiger pelage color variations. They suggested that these variations may have evolved to adapt to different habitats and environmental conditions. For example, tigers living in dense forests may have evolved a darker fur coloration to blend in with the shadows and undergrowth, while tigers living in open grasslands may have evolved a lighter fur coloration to blend in with the sunlight and vegetation.
Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the genetics of tiger pelage color variations. By identifying the genes involved in regulating the production of pigments responsible for the different fur colors and patterns, the researchers have shed new light on the biology of these iconic big cats. The findings may also have practical applications, such as in the breeding and conservation of captive tigers with desired fur colorations.
However, the study is not without limitations. For example, it only examined a small number of tigers, and other genes and environmental factors may also play a role in tiger pelage color variations. Nevertheless, the study represents an important step forward in our understanding of the genetics of these fascinating big cats.
Citation
Xu, X., Dong, GX., Schmidt-Küntzel, A. et al. The genetics of tiger pelage color variations. Cell Res 27, 954–957 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/cr.2017.32
Published 10 March 2017