INO mutation in lovebirds 🦜.

Red eyes (INO) mutation in lovebirds.

"ino" mutation found in lovebirds, which affects the pigmentation of their feathers. There are two types of ino mutations: sex-linked ino and non-sex-linked ino. Here's the difference between the two:

1. Sex-Linked Ino:
Sex-linked ino is a mutation that is linked to the sex chromosomes, specifically the Z chromosome in lovebirds. This means that the gene responsible for the ino mutation is located on the sex chromosome. In sex-linked ino, males and females have different appearances. Ino males have a complete lack of melanin pigmentation, resulting in white or cream-colored feathers. Their eye color is typically red or pink. Females, on the other hand, have a reduced expression of the ino mutation, leading to a mix of white or cream-colored feathers and normal pigmentation. The eye color of female inos is usually a paler shade of red or pink compared to males.
2. Non-Sex-Linked Ino:
Non-sex-linked ino refers to the ino mutation that is not linked to the sex chromosomes. In this case, both males and females exhibit similar appearances. Both genders have a complete lack of melanin pigmentation, resulting in white or cream-colored feathers. The eye color of non-sex-linked inos is typically red or pink, similar to sex-linked inos.

It's important to note that the inheritance patterns and expression of ino mutations can vary depending on the specific species and genetic factors involved. Lovebird breeders often work with these mutations to produce different color variations and patterns within the ino variety.