A-locus coat colour / Charcoal (ASIP-related) - Bengal cat

What does this test analyse?

This DNA analysis examines the ASIP gene in Bengal cats for the Charcoal coat pattern, also known as A-locus Charcoal, Charcoal Bengal, or charcoal with mask and cape markings. The analysis combines markers for the A^Pben haplotype with the domestic cat non-agouti a allele.

What does it mean for the coat?

Charcoal Bengals often show a darker facial mask, a dark dorsal cape and stronger dark markings than non-charcoal Bengals. The most important practical combination is A^Pben/a: one Asian leopard cat agouti haplotype together with one non-agouti a allele. Other combinations can provide useful breeding information, but do not produce the same clear charcoal pattern.

• A^Pben/a: expected charcoal combination in Bengal cats.
• A^Pben without a: no typical charcoal pattern, but the A^Pben haplotype can be passed on.
• a without A^Pben: no charcoal, but the non-agouti allele can be relevant in matings.

Practical value of this test

The test helps breeders identify which cats carry or can pass on the charcoal combination. Because Bengal coat colour is influenced by several loci and patterns, this analysis is especially valuable for planning matings and understanding mask, cape and dark pattern development.