Genotype of a Mouse with Black Fur and Red Eyes

What genotype does a mouse with black fur and red eyes could have?

A mouse with black fur and red eyes could have the genotype bb ee.

Explanation:

The "bb" genotype represents the presence of the black fur allele: In mice, fur color is controlled by different genes, and the "bb" genotype signifies the presence of the black fur allele. This allele determines the production of eumelanin pigment, resulting in black fur color.

The "ee" genotype indicates the absence of any pigmentation in the eyes: The "ee" genotype signifies the absence of any pigmentation in the eyes, leading to red or pink eye color in mice.

The black fur allele is typically dominant, meaning that a mouse only needs one copy of the black allele (represented by "b") to exhibit black fur color. However, the absence of pigmentation in the eyes is recessive, so a mouse needs two copies of the non-pigmented allele (represented by "e") to have red eyes.

Therefore, a mouse with black fur and red eyes must have the genotype bb ee, indicating homozygosity for the black fur allele and homozygosity for the non-pigmented eye allele.

← Rock cycle and soil formation Why are russets often called idaho potatoes →