The al Locus

Symbol: al
Also known as: Albino locus

Albino and normal squabs in a nest.

Function

A locus associated with true albinism in domestic pigeons (loss of normal pigmentation), with reported visual impairment and nystagmus in affected birds.

Alleles at this locus

  • al – Albino
  • al+ – Wild type (normal pigmentation)

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive to normal, with mutant gene symbol al.

Primary genetic effects

Produces true albino individuals (as distinct from many “white” breeds that retain normal eye pigmentation and therefore are not albino), and is associated with some visual impairment and nystagmus.

Linkage

No linkages known.

Associated genes / alleles

  • Albino (al)

Phenotypes influenced

  • Albino