Albinism

Albinism

News: Recently a partial Albino Dhole (Cuon alpinus) has been photo-documented in Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary.

What is Albinism?
 Albinism is the result of cells that can’t produce melanin, the pigment needed to colour skin, scales, eyes and hair. This genetic condition gets passed to offspring when both parents carry the recessive gene. When albinism is present, the animal can appear white or pink.
 The production of melanin occurs within melanocytes, specialized cells that are present but not fully functional in albino mammals.

About Dhole:
 Also known as Asiatic Wild Dog it is found in three clusters across India namely the Western and Eastern Ghats, the central Indian landscape and North East India.
 The Western and Eastern Ghats is a stronghold region for dholes.
 IUCN Red List - Endangered
 The Wildlife Protection Act 1972 - Schedule II
 CITES - Appendix II