Genetic basis of the Melanotic Prat phenotype

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Abstract
1. The genetics of plumage colour of a melanotic columbian-restricted male called ''Melanotic Prat'' is described. It was found among the F2 progeny of crosses between the Castellana and Prat breeds, and is very similar to the ''quail'' phenotype. 2. Results of crosses involving this male indicate that it''s plumage colour pattern is the result of the Ml/Ml genotype adding black pigment to the columbian plumage pattern produced by the eWh and Co genes. 3. The melanotic gene (Ml) is recessive in the presence of the columbian-restricted genotype. It has no effect on the chick down colour although it could be a modifier to produce greyish or black back colourations when Co is present in the genotype. 4. It is suggested that the quail plumage colour is due to the same melanotic factor interacting with the primary pattern of a columbian-restricted genotype.
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