Context:
Tamil Nadu Forest Department staff and members of a non-governmental organisation recently rescued a rare peacock with white feathers, caused by a genetic condition called leucism.
Relevance:
GS III: Species in News
Leucism
Leucism is a condition characterized by reduced pigmentation in various animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. It results from a genetic mutation that prevents melanin and other pigments from being properly deposited in feathers, hair, or skin. This condition can manifest as overall paleness or as patches of reduced coloring across the body.
Characteristics in Birds
- Feather Pigmentation: In birds, leucism is observed specifically in the feathers. Affected birds may exhibit white patches in areas typically colored, or their entire plumage might appear pale or as if it has been bleached.
- Normal Body Pigmentation: Unlike albinism, leucism does not affect the pigmentation of the skin, eyes, or other non-feather parts of birds.
Albinism vs. Leucism
Albinism
- Genetic Mutation: Albinism is caused by a mutation that leads to absent or significantly reduced melanin production.
- Physical Appearance: Albinos typically have white or pinkish skin and hair due to the lack of melanin. Their eyes usually appear red because the blood vessels are visible through the translucent iris.
- Total Pigmentation Loss: This condition involves a complete loss of pigmentation throughout the body, including the eyes, which distinguishes it markedly from leucism.
Leucism
- Partial Pigmentation Loss: Leucism involves only a partial loss of melanin production or its distribution. This can lead to white or patchy-colored skin, hair, and feathers.
- Normal Eye Coloration: The eyes of leucistic animals usually retain normal pigmentation, which helps differentiate it from albinism. Similarly, the pigmentation of other body parts like legs and bills in birds remains unaffected.
-Source: The Hindu
