What breed is a black mouse? - briefly
A black mouse is a melanistic color morph of the common house mouse (Mus musculus), not a distinct breed. In the pet trade, black‑furred individuals are classified as a fancy‑mouse strain selected for that coat color.
What breed is a black mouse? - in detail
A black‑coated mouse is most commonly a member of the Mus musculus species, specifically the laboratory strain known as C57BL/6. This strain carries a recessive mutation at the c locus that suppresses pigment production, resulting in a uniform black fur. The genetic basis is well documented: the c allele interferes with the enzymatic pathway that synthesizes melanin, giving the animal its characteristic dark appearance.
Other domesticated varieties that may display a black coat include:
- Black Fancy: a pet mouse selectively bred for solid black coloration, often derived from the same c mutation but combined with traits such as docility and longer lifespan.
- Black Swiss: a term occasionally used in the pet trade for black mice that exhibit a slightly larger body size and robust health, though not a distinct genetic line.
- Black Albino (melanistic): rare individuals that retain some eye pigmentation while the fur remains black, resulting from a different mutation affecting pigment distribution.
In the wild, true black coloration is uncommon. Most free‑living mice exhibit brown, gray, or mixed pelage patterns that provide camouflage. When a black coat is observed in natural populations, it typically reflects a localized genetic drift or a selective pressure favoring darker fur, such as increased protection from ultraviolet radiation.
Key characteristics of the primary black laboratory strain (C57BL/6):
- Genotype: homozygous c/c at the coat color locus.
- Phenotype: uniformly black fur, pink eyes, and a robust immune profile.
- Usage: standard model for immunology, genetics, and neuroscience research.
- Behavior: normal activity levels, strong breeding performance, and well‑documented lifespan of 1–2 years under laboratory conditions.
For pet owners seeking a black mouse, the recommended source is a reputable breeder offering Black Fancy or Black Swiss lines, ensuring the animals are free from hereditary defects and have been health‑screened.