Archives

Animal coloration is a powerful model for studying the genetic mechanisms that determine
phenotype. Various genes, McIr, ASIP, SLC45A2, MITF, and TYR, were studied in different
phenotypic colors of cobra snake (Naja kaouthia). Amplification of McIr seems to contribute in
different colors of cobra more than other genes. However, sequence variation of 318 bp McIr
among, normal black wild type, normal black carrier with albino parents, intermediate with cream,
and blanched albino, is rare. Only 5 nucleotide polymorphisms were observed among 12 cobras. It
seems likely that no relationship between Mc1r polymorphism and colour variation observed in
cobras. It is possible that the activity of Mc1r gene might affect only the amount of melanin
produced, not genotypic sequences. Changes in the production and dispersion of melanin granules
are responsible for changing in the color of cobras or relevant traits. Color variation among cobras
seems to be associated with a consequence of non-genetic factors such as environmental factors,
nutrition status, and maternal effects.
Key words: McIr, albino, cobras