“A simple mechanism can create an amazing, diverse and rich variety of patterns,” says Seita Miyazawa, an evolutionary biologist at Osaka University in Japan. Way to go, Alan.

The gene, Dkk4, produces a “pre-pattern” of thick and thin skin on the developing cat embryo that ends up mapping the pattern of stripes on the cat’s fur later.

From leopard spots to tiger stripes, fur patterns among cats are some of the most instantly recognisable markings in the animal kingdom. Now, researchers have identified the gene that is behind ...

Due to their color pattern, these animals are also said to have a form of partial albinism. Their eyes are blue, but there are other colors, especially on the face, tail, and legs.

"I feel quite honored to be involved in such significant work," she said. "I hope humans and wild animals can live in harmony to create a more beautiful world." Xiao Kui contributed to this story.