Färgmorf

Färgmorf, or color morph, is a term used in biology to describe discrete color variants within a single species. A färgmorf may be genetically determined, arise from polygenic inheritance, or result from seasonal or developmental changes. The term is used across animals, plants, and fungi to refer to coloration patterns that are distinct from the typical form of the species.

Color morphs can originate from different biological processes. Genetic variants can affect pigment production (such as melanin and carotenoids) or pigment deposition, leading to melanistic, leucistic, albinic, or orange/white forms. In some cases, coloration is influenced by structural properties of tissues or by gene regulation during development. In plants, morphs can involve flower or leaf pigments, variegation, or cultivar differences that produce distinct color appearances.

The frequency and maintenance of color morphs are shaped by ecological and evolutionary forces. Natural selection can favor certain morphs in particular habitats through camouflage, signaling, or thermoregulation. Sexual selection may favor morphs that are preferred by mates. Genetic drift and limited gene flow can also preserve or alter morph frequencies, especially in isolated populations or fragmented habitats. In domesticated species, human-mediated selection creates many color morphs that may not reflect natural adaptive value but can influence behavior, disease susceptibility, or care requirements.

Classic examples include the peppered moth, which shows light and dark morphs in response to pollution-driven habitat changes, and a wide range of color morphs in domesticated animals and ornamental fish. Färgmorf remains a key concept for understanding phenotypic diversity and evolution within species.