Red Hair Recessive Or Dominant

Red Hair: Is it a Recessive or Dominant Trait?

Red hair is a rare and distinctive trait that has long been the source of fascination and debate. As a result, many people wonder whether red hair is a recessive or dominant trait. In this article, we will look at the scientific evidence and explain the genetics behind red hair.

What is a Recessive Trait?

Recessive traits are traits that are not expressed in the presence of a dominant gene. For example, if two parents both have brown eyes, but one carries a recessive gene for blue eyes, their child may have blue eyes. In this case, the blue eye color is recessive, meaning the brown eye color is dominant.

What is a Dominant Trait?

Dominant traits are traits that are expressed in the presence of a dominant gene. For example, if two parents both have brown eyes, but one carries a dominant gene for blue eyes, their child may have blue eyes. In this case, the blue eye color is dominant, meaning the brown eye color is recessive.

Is Red Hair Recessive or Dominant?

The answer to this question is not straightforward. Red hair is a complex trait and is determined by more than one gene. Generally speaking, red hair is a recessive trait, meaning that both parents must carry the gene for it to be expressed in their children. However, there are some cases where red hair can be dominant, such as in people of Irish or Scottish descent.

The Genetics Behind Red Hair

The gene responsible for red hair is called MC1R. This gene is located on the X chromosome, and it codes for a protein that affects the production of melanin, the pigment that gives hair, skin, and eyes their color. People with two copies of the MC1R gene will have red hair, while those with one or no copies will not. This gene is considered to be recessive, meaning that both parents must carry the gene for it to be expressed in their children.

Conclusion

In conclusion, red hair is a complex trait that is determined by more than one gene. Generally speaking, red hair is a recessive trait, meaning that both parents must carry the gene for it to be expressed in their children. However, there are some cases where red hair can be dominant, such as in people of Irish or Scottish descent. Understanding the genetics behind red hair can help us better understand this unique and fascinating trait.