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Mouse Genetics The
genetics of mice, and indeed of all creatures, is a complex conglomeration of
chromosomes, genes, alleles, and linkages. Mendel described simple genetics
and a lot of the coat color genetics that we will be discussing below act in
this manner, however not all genes work in this way. We will explore
minimally linkage, polymorphic traits, and limited expression. Below you will
find links to the basic sections of this paper. Please keep in mind that I
have no degree in genetics. My degree is, however, in statistics, so the
statistical portions of this paper should be fairly accurate. |
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This
page is an overview of inheritance. There are many sources on the internet
that detail this information in a much more clear manner, but for the
purposes of remaining at one site, you are welcome to read my own
"take" on what Mendel has taught us. |
Mendel
described the simple genetics that work with statistical perfection (when
large samples are taken). He either ignored, or didn't notice the genetics
that were more complicated. Here we will discuss linked genes, polymorphic
traits, and limited expression. |
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These
are the main five color loci responsible for the color of the shafts of hair,
and of the eyes, on a mouse: A, B, C, D, and P. That page will discuss a lot
of the different combinations of these genes. |
This
page will detail the marking genes that are responsible for varieties like
the Dutch mouse, banded mice, rumpwhite mice, etc. |
This
page will detail the genes responsible for a change in the consistency in the
hair of a mouse. Here we will discuss topics such as satin, long hair, curly
hair, and no hair. |
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Finally
this page will discuss some of the genes responsible for strange mutations
that effect tail length, ear size, ear position, etc. Some of the genetic
symbols to be found here are "made up" by the author as their
actual scientific symbol, if it exists, has not been made known to her. |
There
are some coat colors and combinations that are as yet unclearly defined. This
page will explain all of the current mysteries, and include in these
discussions any theories as to the true genetics of the coat color/phenotype
in question. |
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Genetics Papers |
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Thank
you for taking the time to view this web page and read up on the various
genetics in question. The ability to understand genetics will make you a
better mouse breeder, if breeding mice is your goal, or just a more
knowledgeable mouse owner. Genetics are the "alphabet" of our existence.
Each of us is a library, and the letters in all the books in the library
determine who and what we are. The same is true of mice. |
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