Glow in the Dark Rabbit: Science Fact or Fiction?

Published by eteachers.info
June 9, 2009, Category: Zoology

Ever wonder if nature and science could combine to make new and improved psychedelic creatures? Me neither, but a team of French geneticists have been trying some theories with a unique success. They have created a Glow in the Dark Rabbit.

Though the reason why you need a glowing rabbit seems elusive, it technically doesn’t glow. When you place the rabbit under a black light, it will shine like the moon. The scientists accomplished this by extracting specific DNA from a jellyfish which provides it with its luminescence.

Technically this becomes a question of chemistry in the hair of the rabbit. The skin doesn’t glow, it’s the hair. Animal hair is constructed so that there are partially hollow strands which act as insulation during the cold weather months. While it is on a microscopic level, it does provide purpose.

The big question about our glowing hossenfeffer is will it still be able to survive a harsh winter? The luminescence is not a miracle. It is a mutation. So is it found in the fibers? Or perhaps in within the hair itself? If you find the solution, please place a comment below.

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