What is the key characteristic distinguishing the white tiger from a true albino?
Answer
White tigers retain dark pigment in their stripes and typically have blue eyes
The critical difference between the white tiger coloration and true albinism lies in the retention of pigment. White tigers still possess pigment, which is evident in their dark stripes (usually black, brown, or charcoal) and their characteristic blue eyes. Albinism, conversely, involves a total lack of pigment, resulting in pink or red eyes. The white tiger's condition is specifically due to a recessive gene affecting the general coat color mechanism, whereas albinism represents a complete failure to produce melanin in most areas.
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