Why Are Green Eyes So Rare? Discover the Genetics Behind Eye Color

Learn why green eyes are rare and the genetics that influence eye color. Explore the science behind this unique trait.

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Green eyes are rare due to the low frequency of the genetic combination required to produce the green eye color. This color is determined by the amount and type of melanin in the iris, as well as the scattering of light, which is less common globally compared to brown or blue eyes.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What causes green eyes? Green eyes are caused by a low concentration of melanin in the iris, combined with the way light is scattered through the eye.
  2. Are green eyes more common in certain populations? Yes, green eyes are more commonly found in individuals of European descent, particularly in Northern and Central Europe.
  3. How rare are green eyes compared to other eye colors? Green eyes are among the rarest eye colors, with only about 2% of the world's population having them compared to brown and blue eyes.
  4. Can eye color change over time? Yes, eye color can change due to various factors including age, health, and environmental effects, though significant changes in green eyes are uncommon.