Animals & Pets
Rabbit Color Calculator
Calculate the probability of offspring coat colors based on parent rabbit genetics.
Enter parent genotypes to see offspring color probabilities
Related to Rabbit Color Calculator
The Rabbit Color Calculator uses Mendelian genetics principles to predict the possible coat colors of offspring based on the parent rabbits' genotypes. The calculator considers four main genes that interact to produce various rabbit coat colors: the C (Color) gene, D (Density) gene, E (Extension) gene, and A (Agouti) gene. Each gene has different alleles (variants) that combine to create the final coat color.
C Gene (Color/Albino Series)
The C gene determines whether color can be expressed at all. The dominant C allele allows for full color expression, while the recessive c allele, when present in two copies (cc), results in an albino rabbit. Rabbits need at least one C allele to show any color.
D Gene (Density)
The D gene affects the intensity of the pigment. Rabbits with at least one D allele (DD or Dd) will have dense, full-colored coats. Those with two recessive alleles (dd) will have diluted colors, resulting in lighter or more muted versions of their base color.
E Gene (Extension)
The E gene controls the distribution of black and yellow pigments. Dominant E alleles (EE or Ee) allow for black/dark color expression, while two recessive alleles (ee) result in red/yellow coloration by preventing black pigment from being expressed in the coat.
A Gene (Agouti)
The A gene determines whether the rabbit will show agouti patterning (banded hairs with different colors) or be self-colored. Rabbits with at least one A allele (AA or Aa) will show agouti patterning, while those with two recessive alleles (aa) will be self-colored.
The calculator provides two types of results: phenotype probabilities and detailed genotype probabilities. Phenotypes are the visible characteristics (actual coat colors), while genotypes are the genetic combinations that produce those colors.
Phenotype Probabilities
These show the likelihood of each possible coat color appearing in the offspring. The percentages represent how often you can expect to see each color in a large group of offspring from these parents. For example, "Agouti Black/Dark 25%" means that approximately one in four offspring would show this coloration.
Genotype Probabilities
These provide a detailed breakdown of all possible genetic combinations and their probabilities. Each genotype shows the specific allele combinations for all four genes (C, D, E, and A) that produce a particular phenotype. This information is particularly valuable for breeding programs where specific genetic combinations are desired.
Remember that these are statistical probabilities, and actual results in individual litters may vary. The calculator assumes that each gene is inherited independently and follows Mendelian inheritance patterns. In reality, some genes may be linked or show more complex inheritance patterns.
1. Why do I get different colors than expected?
Rabbit color genetics is complex, and the actual colors can be influenced by factors beyond the four main genes calculated here. Environmental factors, modifier genes, and epigenetic effects can all influence the final coat color. Additionally, some color combinations may look different than expected due to the interaction of multiple genes.
2. How accurate are the probability predictions?
The probabilities are based on theoretical Mendelian inheritance patterns and assume independent assortment of genes. While these predictions are mathematically accurate, actual breeding results may vary due to random chance, especially in small litter sizes. The probabilities become more accurate when considering larger numbers of offspring.
3. What if I don't know my rabbits' genotypes?
If you don't know your rabbits' exact genotypes, you can often make educated guesses based on their appearance and known ancestry. For more accurate results, consider working with a veterinary geneticist or experienced breeder who can help determine the likely genotypes based on phenotype and breeding history.
4. Can this calculator predict other traits?
This calculator focuses specifically on coat color genetics involving the C, D, E, and A genes. It does not predict other traits such as coat type (rex, angora, etc.), size, or other physical characteristics. These traits are controlled by different genes and may have different inheritance patterns.
5. What is the scientific source for this calculator?
This calculator is based on established research in rabbit genetics, particularly the work documented in "The Genetics of Domestic Rabbits" by Castle (1930) and subsequent studies in the Journal of Heredity and other genetics publications. The inheritance patterns of the C, D, E, and A genes have been well-documented through decades of research by institutions such as the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) and various university genetics departments. The mathematical models used for probability calculations follow standard Mendelian inheritance principles as described in modern genetics textbooks and verified through extensive breeding studies.