NextPrevious

DNA, RNA, Chromosomes, and Genes

Genetic Mutations

How do some cats have stripes and others spots?

Researchers recently discovered why certain cats have stripes and others spots— and it all has to do with mutations. In particular, tabby house cats and king cheetahs share a gene responsible for the cats’ stripes and the cheetahs’ spots. But when a mutation in the single gene (called Taqpep) occurs, the tabby will develop patches, not stripes, and the cheetah’s spots become wide stripes. The biggest question remains: What is the biological and evolutionary significance of this mutation?



Close

This is a web preview of the "The Handy Biology Answer Book" app. Many features only work on your mobile device. If you like what you see, we hope you will consider buying. Get the App