Albinism in animals is a condition that causes a creature to become an albino and is caused by recessive genes inherited from both the animal’s parents. Almost any type of animal can display albinism, even invertebrates like crabs and jellyfish. Although rare, there have been sightings of albino dolphins, albino peacocks and even albino alligators.
Albino dolphins were first sighted in 1962. Since 1994 three have been seen enjoying the waters in or around the Gulf of Mexico. The most recent sighting of an albino dolphin was in Louisiana’s Lake Calcasieu.
In March, 2009 the world's only pink Bottlenose dolphin was discovered in the inland lake. It is shockingly pink but it is an albino with telltale pink eyes. Although albinism is a genetic trait, it is still unclear what type of albinism this pink albino dolphin inherited.
Other amazing albino animals include the albino peacock. Most people associate a peacock with a rainbow of colors but the albino peacock is completely white from body to feathers.
As if alligators aren't intimidating enough, the albino alligator has very little pigment (one at Germany’s Serengeti Safari Park is as white as bone china) and its eyes are almost white as well -- making for an extremely scary looking creature.
White snakes, albino gorillas, albino whales, great white whale sharks, albino dolphins ... the list goes on. Rare, fascinating albino animals around the world capture the attention of photographers, researchers and curious people around the world.
For a great group of albino animal photos, click here.
Written by Cheryl Phillips
HULIQ.com
sources: TelegraphUK.com,
Comment and add to the story without registration, but keep the comments meaningful please. Links are not accepted.
