Mike Clinton
Seeing Red: Unveiling the Secret of Rabbit’s Ruby Peepers
Have you ever noticed a rabbit’s eyes and wondered why they are so strikingly red? Well, the answer lies in their genetics! The gene responsible for their unique eye color is called the "C locus" gene, which controls the amount and type of pigments produced in their eyes.
Rabbits with the "C locus" gene have a reduced amount of melanin, which is the pigment responsible for brown and black colors. This reduction allows for the production of another pigment called pheomelanin, which gives the eyes a reddish color.
But that’s not all! The reflection of light in a rabbit’s eyes also contributes to their ruby-like appearance. The tapetum lucidum, a reflective layer behind the retina, enhances their night vision and creates that extra sparkle in their eyes.
Puzzling Over Rabbit’s Eye Color? Here’s the Answer!
If you’ve ever owned a rabbit, you might have noticed a variation in eye color among different breeds. This is because the "C locus" gene can come in different forms, resulting in various eye colors such as blue, gray, brown, and even heterochromia (two different colored eyes).
Furthermore, some rabbits may have a mutation in the "C locus" gene that results in white fur and pink eyes. In these cases, the lack of pigmentation causes the eyes to appear pink, and they are more susceptible to eye problems due to their lack of protective melanin.
In conclusion, the next time you see a rabbit with ruby red eyes, you’ll know that it’s not just a coincidence, but a result of their unique genetics and reflective layer. And remember, the different eye colors in rabbits are just another way they show off their adorable individuality.