What Makes Albino Animals?

Albino animals can appear quite shocking with their white fur, feathers or skin, and pinkish-red eyes. They stand out in pale comparison to their colorful counterparts in the animal world. Other than the obvious difference of color, albino animals are much the same as other animals of their species. Though their unusual appearance can cause some problems, albinism has a simple scientific cause.

Cause

• Albinism is caused by a recessive gene. Both parents must carry the gene to pass on the trait. The gene for albinism blocks the production of melanin, which is a pigment that gives color to animal and human features. Without melanin, animals are born white with pinkish-red eyes. All animal species can have albino individuals, including dogs, peacocks, snakes, bats, squirrels, whales, lobsters, newts, turtles and koalas. Even insects can have albinism.

Types

• If an animal is entirely white with distinctive pinkish-red eyes, it is obviously albino. Sometimes animals have varying amounts of melanin, yet they're still classified as albinos. If an animal is white but has blue or other colors in its eyes, that's called leucistic albinism. If an animal has normal-colored eyes and small portions of white on its body, it has partial albinism. This classification can cause some confusion. The white Bengal tiger, for instance, is not considered albino since it has its dark stripes and blue eyes.

Problems

• Though albino animals are the same as other animals in most ways, some inherent problems come with being so pale in a colorful world. Normal amounts of melanin protect animals from sun exposure. Because albinos lack pigmentation, they are more susceptible to skin cancers, sunburn and eye damage. Because of their distinctive appearance, albino animals also experience difficulty hiding from predators, sneaking up on prey and attracting mates.

Advantages

• In a world where differences are celebrated, albino animals are often considered beautiful. Some albino animals can't be hunted by humans due to special regulations. Some American Indians will not harm white bison because they are regarded as a source of good luck and power. Zoos also value albino animals. This is especially fortunate, as these animals have a better chance of surviving in a zoo.