Apr 15, 2024
Fm- Fibromelanism in Chickens
Fibromelanism is unique to chickens. I haven't heard of instances of this in any other species.
Fibromelanism causes black skin, meat, bones and organs. Two chicken breeds that it is commonly found in are Ayam Cemanis and Silkies.
Trust me, I've butchered a Silkie before. Every organ is black. The blood isn't, of course.
Fibromelanism is caused by an autosomal dominant gene, but it needs the id+ gene to express. The id+ gene is sexlinked recessive. Id+ enables a chicken to have slate legs, or even dark facial skin in the presence of other melanizers.
Some slate-grey legs stylishly exhibited by a young Queeny
My hen, Starling exhibited a mulberry-colored face due to the interaction of id+ and other melanizers