Mmastodon ScienceBiology first seen 16 h ago, last 56 min ago, peak #9

Scientists uncover genetic cause of orange cat coloring

Original: Two sets of investigators have found that orange cats have their color because of a deletion of ~5,000 base pairs at a p

Two independent research teams have identified why some cats are orange: a deletion of roughly 5,000 base pairs on the X chromosome. Since males carry only one X chromosome, they become orange all over, while females with two X chromosomes show patchy orange coloring, such as in calico cats. The findings explain a long-standing quirk of cat coat genetics.

Why now: The simultaneous publication of two studies resolving a long-standing mystery in cat genetics is drawing wide attention.

orange catscalico catsX chromosome

Open on mastodon →

Rank over time, top of the chart is #1. 12 snapshots from 16 h ago to 56 min ago.

Evidence

• Two sets of investigators have found that orange cats have their color because of a deletion of ~5,000 base pairs at a particular location on the X chromosome. Because males have only one X chromosome, they end up orange everywhere. Females have patchy orange (e.g., calico)… · rdnielsen@floss.social · 5

API: https://socialmediatrends-api.osmike.com/v1/trends/1749878