Alpaca Coat Colour

Alpacas have one of the widest natural coat colour ranges of any fibre-producing animal. Some examples of possible coat colours are white, fawn, brown, black and grey. Coat colour in alpacas is a complex trait influenced by several genetic factors. We offer genetic tests for the E-locus, A-locus and Classic Grey.

E-Locus (MC1R)

The E-locus, or Melanocortin 1 Receptor (MC1R) gene controls the production of eumelanin (black/brown pigment) in melanocytes (pigment cells). Our test detects three different variants of the MC1R gene: e1 (MC1R_C901T), e2 (MC1R_A82G) and e3 (MC1R_224-227delACTT).

The combined results of these three mutations can produce the following genotypes: EE, Ee, and ee.

A-Locus (ASIP)

The A-locus, or Agouti Signalling Protein (ASIP) gene, regulates the distribution of melanin pigment and determines whether melanocytes produce phaeomelanin (red/yellow pigment) or eumelanin. Our detects three different mutations in the ASIP gene: a1 (ASIP_325-381del57), a2 (ASIP_C292T) and a3 (ASIP_G353A).

It is important to note that the a3 mutation lies within the a1 deletion, as a result:

Individuals with a a1a1 genotype will have no result for a3 (ASIP_G353A)

Individuals with a Aa1 genotype will always be homozygous for ASIP_G353A (either AA or a3a3).

The combined results of these mutations can produce the following genotypes: AA, Aa, and aa. In general, the more dominant Agouti alleles are associated with lighter phenotypes, while more recessive alleles are associated with darker phenotypes.

E-Locus (MC1R) & A-Locus (ASIP)

There is an epistatic relationship between MC1R and ASIP. When a functional copy of MC1R is present (EE or Ee), eumelanin can be produced and the MC1R gene does not restrict the effect of ASIP. When no functional copy of MC1R is present (ee), only phaeomelanin can be expressed, regardless of the ASIP genotype.

Classic Grey (KIT)

The Classic Grey phenotype is caused by a dominant mutation in the KIT gene. This coat colour pattern is overlaid on the base colour and results in a dilution effect that lightens the fleece. Classic Grey alpacas typically show a mixture of black and white or fawn fibres, creating the characteristic grey appearance. Two genotypes are typically observed: Non-Grey (N/N) and Classic-Grey (N/G). The G/G genotype is not expected to occur, as it is hypothesized to be embryonic lethal.

In addition to the Classic Grey phenotype, the KIT mutation tested here is also associated with the Blue-Eyed White (BEW) phenotype. BEW alpacas are often linked to congenital sensorineural deafness, and their coat colour may appear solid white, masking the presence of grey genetics. This is particularly relevant in light-coloured animals, where the grey phenotype may be cryptic or hidden. While variants in the KIT gene explain many cases of BEW, other, as-yet unidentified genetic factors may also cause this phenotype.

Coat Colour Genetics

Coat colour is a complex trait influenced by multiple genes. In alpacas, the same genotype can sometimes produce a range of different coat colours due to interactions between genes and other modifying factors.

Testing multiple loci provides the most complete prediction of coat colour genetics, although additional genetic factors influencing coat colour may still be discovered.

Relevant Tests

S408 – CombiBreed Coat Colour and Type – Alpaca