I'm doing a project on feline genetics and I know all of the basics, but I was wondering what gene creates the silver sheen on the Russian Blue and Chartreux breeds? I don't think it's the same as the inhibitor gene, but is it related to the Bengal glitter gene (gl)? And most importantly, is it dominant or recessive?
I tried to find something to help you, but can't find anything. All it says is that the RB coat is light blue with silver tipping on the ends to reflect the light. Nothing about how its created. I hope you can find something as I'm good with genetics and color.
I bred RB's as my first purebred cat. I have been told that the hairs are clear and its the light that you see is "silver" on the ends, but I don't believe that is true - its a silver tipping on the ends. What causes this, I have no idea.
Perhaps you can find something about silver tipping with rats in genetics (it would apply to cat genetics) - many rat breeds have that silver sheen. Good luck and sorry I could not find something for you.
