Abstract
A new mutant allele of the Syrian hamster is described. It is inherited as an autosomal recessive and is probably an homologue of the gene for brown pigment, a mutational step which is known to occur in a number of rodent species. In animals homozygous for the mutant allele, all the normal black eumelanin is changed to brown. The new coat colour engendered in this manner is described in detail. The brown allele has been tested for linkage against the genes cream and ruby-eye but the results were negative.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Robinson, R. (1958). Genetic studies of the Syrian hamster. I. The mutant genes, cream, ruby-eye and piebald.J. Genet. 56: 85–102.
Robinson, R. (1959). Genetic studies of the Syrian hamster. II. Partial albinism.Heredity 13: 165–177.
Robinson, R. (1960). The occurrence of a brown mutation in the Syrian hamster.Nature (London) 187: 170–171.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Robinson, R. Genetic studies of the Syrian hamster. Genetica 33, 81–87 (1963). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01725751
Received:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01725751