Skin color is the only difference we can see, but the genetics in the different morphs no doubt produce other differences. In development, melanocytes -- cells that produce melanin -- are derived from a special group of cells that also contribute to the nervous system, intestinal and facial development. If we mess around with the genes responsible for those cells, we are messing around with more than skin color, even if we don't know it.
For example, in horses there is something called "lethal white foal syndrome." These are foals that are all white, because they don't have melanocytes. However, they don't live very long because in addition to lacking melanocytes, they are missing cells essential to normal intestinal function.
Reply With Quote