What is the background of the white tiger?

Answer 1

The white tiger is a pigmentation variant of the Bengal tiger, primarily characterized by its white fur and black or dark brown stripes. This unique coloration is due to a recessive gene that affects the production of pheomelanin, which is responsible for the orange coloration in tigers. White tigers are not a separate subspecies but have been selectively bred in captivity since the mid-20th century, leading to concerns about inbreeding and health issues. Their striking appearance has made them popular in zoos and entertainment, despite ongoing debates about the ethics of breeding them.