Rabbit Color Genetics Calculator

Rabbit coat color is controlled by five key genes, and the Rabbit Color Genetics Calculator predicts what colors your kits are likely to inherit based on both parents' genetic makeup. Select the A, B, C, D, and E gene variants for both the sire and dam to see the most likely offspring color, its probability, the primary genotype, and the total number of possible genetic combinations.

Controls agouti banding pattern vs solid color

Determines black vs chocolate base color

Controls color saturation and shading

Dense colors vs diluted (blue, lilac)

Controls dark pigment extension

Controls agouti banding pattern vs solid color

Determines black vs chocolate base color

Controls color saturation and shading

Dense colors vs diluted (blue, lilac)

Controls dark pigment extension

Results

Most Likely Offspring Color

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Primary Genotype

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Probability

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Total Possible Combinations

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Results Table

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Frequently Asked Questions

What color are rabbits naturally?

Wild rabbits are typically agouti (brown with black ticking), but domestic rabbits come in hundreds of recognized colors and patterns through selective breeding and genetic variations.

How do I determine my rabbit's color genetics?

Observe the rabbit's coat color, check pedigree records if available, and consider test breeding with known genotypes. The five main genes (A, B, C, D, E) control most color variations.

What is the probability of getting a specific color from two parent rabbits?

It depends on the parents' genotypes. Simple recessive traits appear in 25% of offspring when both parents are carriers, while dominant traits can appear in 75% or more of offspring.

What factor affects the gene color of Himalayan rabbits?

Temperature affects Himalayan rabbit coloring. The enzyme responsible for dark pigment is temperature-sensitive, producing darker colors on cooler body parts (ears, nose, feet, tail).

Do rabbits see color the same way humans do?

No, rabbits have dichromatic vision (like red-green colorblind humans) and see primarily blue and green wavelengths. They cannot distinguish reds and have better motion detection than color discrimination.

What are the main genes that control rabbit coat color?

The five primary genes are: A (agouti/self pattern), B (black/brown pigment), C (color intensity), D (dense/dilute), and E (extension of dark pigment). These create the foundation for most rabbit colors.

Can two solid-colored rabbits produce agouti offspring?

Yes, if both solid (self) parents carry the recessive agouti gene (aa x aa cannot, but Aa x Aa can produce AA or Aa agouti offspring with 75% probability).

What's the difference between chocolate and lilac rabbits?

Chocolate rabbits have the bb genotype (brown pigment) with dense color (DD), while lilac rabbits have both bb and dd genotypes, creating a diluted grayish-brown color.