Beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. The diversity of human features is something to be celebrated, as it reflects the rich tapestry of our shared existence. Black people are known to carry distinct features that often captivate those who encounter our melanated magic. From our beautiful tresses to our tall and strong physical statures, being Black is a blessing, and some of us carry some fascinating physical traits.
MORE: The History Of Black People With Blonde Hair
A small population of Black people across the world have green eyes, which is a rarity in and of itself. People who carry the outstanding trait account for only two percent of the global population. The presence of green eyes among black individuals offers a visual testament to the beauty and uniqueness that can emerge from the blending of various genetic traits.
The Genetics Behind Green Eyes
The color of our eyes is determined by the amount and distribution of melanin, a pigment that also influences our skin and hair color. While brown eyes are the most common, green eyes are the result of a unique combination of genetic factors. The specific gene is responsible for green eye color is called OCA2, a small protein located in melanocytes that cells use to produce pigment, otherwise known as melanin, according to The Coolist.
However, the presence of green eyes in black individuals is not solely determined by this gene but is often a result of a complex interplay of various genetic factors. The genetic phenomenon can also be directly linked to ancestry. For example, the people of Melanesia, who are known for their striking blond hair and blue and green eyes, are said to have inherited their features from various settlers that passed through the island.
Some researchers believe that the mutation likely originated from people near the northwest part of the Black Sea region where a heavy presence of agricultural migration occurred toward the northern part of Europe about…
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