MAB Clone Pigmentation

[Barry Farms]

Interesting addition to the current pool of clone-related topics, I saw that in this picture of Lautner Farm's MAB clones they have slightly different markings. What could cause this? Does the pigmentation have the ability change in the womb?

Thankyou ῀ Jack

 

[sgetz007]

There have been many studies on this that go way over my head.  This is a very well know occurrence because of the use of cloning in Holstein cattle.  A group of clones will all have slightly different patterns.  As I understand it melanocyte migration (which dictates pigmentation) occurs during fetal development and is affected by many uncontrollable factors.  Genetics are the same, environmental factors alter exact markings.

 

[sgetz007]

Here's is an example.  They are still very similar, but the migration doesn't line up perfectly.

 

[hamburgman]

you nailed it sgetz007

 

[hntwhitetail]

I also have heard it is how they lay in the womb.