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Two recent studies have revealed how parrots and finches produce their vibrant feather and bill colours, advancing understanding of the genetic and biochemical processes behind bird colouration.
The studies show how small genetic changes can lead to significant colour variation, shedding light on how these traits evolved
Study Findings
Researchers found that colour changes in parrots (e.g., from yellow to red) are linked to the enzyme ALDH3A2, which regulates pigment conversion in feathers.
In finches, two genes (CYP2J19 and TTC39B) control the conversion of yellow carotenoids into red pigments in the bill.
Both studies found that mutations in these genes affect where and when these enzymes are active, leading to variations in colour without changing the enzyme's function.
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are natural pigments found in plants, responsible for yellow, orange, and red colours in birds.
Birds, except parrots, must consume carotenoids from their diet to produce these colours; they can’t create them on their own.
Psittacofulvins
Unlike other birds, parrots use a different group of pigments called psittacofulvins to create their bright colours.
Parrots have evolved a distinct biochemical pathway that allows them to produce these pigments internally, unlike other birds that rely solely on carotenoids from their diet.
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