How do you call a black mouse? - briefly
It is referred to as a black mouse.
How do you call a black mouse? - in detail
A mouse whose coat is uniformly dark is commonly referred to as a black mouse. In scientific literature the designation is “Mus musculus” with the qualifier “melanistic” to indicate the pigment mutation responsible for the dark coloration. The term “melanistic mouse” precisely describes the genetic basis, while “dark-furred mouse” and “black‑coated mouse” are accepted colloquial alternatives.
- Black mouse – everyday name used by pet owners and the general public.
- Melanistic mouse – term employed in genetics and zoological research.
- Dark‑fur mouse – informal label emphasizing coat color without implying a specific mutation.
- Black‑coated mouse – descriptive phrase used in field guides and wildlife reports.
In laboratory settings the melanistic strain is identified by stock numbers and may be labeled “B6.Cg‑Tyr‑c‑2J” or similar, depending on the breeding program. Pet stores list the animal as “black mouse” to differentiate it from albino or agouti varieties. Wildlife surveys record sightings under the species name with a color note, e.g., “Mus musculus, melanistic form.”
Translations of the concept appear in other languages: French uses “souris noire,” Spanish “ratón negro,” and German “schwarze Maus.” Each maintains the same descriptive structure, pairing the animal name with the adjective for color.