Classic Grey, coat colour (alpaca)

LABOKLIN Service ID: 8982

The classic grey phenotype in alpacas is caused by a genetic variant in the KIT gene and manifests itself in a graying of the coat, which leads to a lightening of the animal’s original base color.
Instead of a uniform gray coloration, the phenotype typically appears as a mixture of pigmented and less pigmented fibers, giving the coat a silver-gray appearance. The gray effect overlays the underlying base color, so that animals that are genetically black, brown or beige appear as lighter gray variants of these colors. With white or diluted base colors, the phenotype is less visible or not visible at all due to the already pale color.
The pattern is inherited autosomal-dominantly and is most likely homozygous non-viable (lethal). Therefore, the mating of two alpacas with the Classic Grey phenotype should be avoided at all costs.

Heredity	autosomal dominant
Duration	1 - 2 weeks after arrival of the sample in the lab