Tortoiseshell: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 20:43, 30 December 2024

The tortoiseshell is a type of cat known for its distinctive coat pattern, which is a mix of black, orange, and sometimes white colors. This pattern is not a breed but rather a color pattern that can occur in many different breeds of cats.

Genetics

The tortoiseshell pattern is a result of genetic factors. It is primarily linked to the X chromosome, which is why most tortoiseshell cats are female. Male tortoiseshells are rare and usually have a genetic anomaly such as Klinefelter syndrome.

Characteristics

Tortoiseshell cats are known for their "tortitude," a term used to describe their feisty and independent personalities. They are often described as being strong-willed and energetic.

Breeds

While the tortoiseshell pattern can appear in many breeds, some of the most common include the American Shorthair, British Shorthair, and Persian cat.

Health

Tortoiseshell cats generally have the same health concerns as other cats. However, male tortoiseshells, due to their genetic makeup, may have additional health issues related to their chromosomal abnormalities.

Cultural Significance

In some cultures, tortoiseshell cats are considered to bring good luck. They are sometimes referred to as "money cats" in the United States.

References

External links

Original article on WikiMD

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-[[File:鼈甲|thumb]] [[File:Vienna - Tortoise shell cabinet & baroque bust - 6465.jpg|thumb]] [[File:Singing Bird Box by Bontems.JPG|thumb]] Tortoiseshell
-Tortoiseshell refers to a material that was historically derived from the shells of certain species of turtles and tortoises, particularly the [[Hawksbill sea turtle]] (Eretmochelys imbricata). This material was highly prized for its beautiful mottled appearance and was used in a variety of decorative arts and crafts.
+{{Infobox animal
+| name = Tortoiseshell
+| image =
+| image_caption = A typical tortoiseshell cat
+| status =
+| status_system =
+}}
-==History==
+The '''tortoiseshell''' is a type of [[cat]] known for its distinctive coat pattern, which is a mix of black, orange, and sometimes white colors. This pattern is not a breed but rather a color pattern that can occur in many different breeds of cats.
-The use of tortoiseshell dates back to ancient times, with evidence of its use in [[Ancient Egypt]], [[China]], and [[Rome]]. It was commonly used for inlay work, jewelry, and small decorative items. The material was valued for its unique pattern, which could range from amber to dark brown with streaks of yellow and orange.
-==Properties==
+== Genetics ==
-Tortoiseshell is known for its durability and its ability to be polished to a high sheen. It is composed primarily of keratin, the same protein that makes up human hair and nails. This gives it a certain flexibility and resilience, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
+The tortoiseshell pattern is a result of [[genetic]] factors. It is primarily linked to the [[X chromosome]], which is why most tortoiseshell cats are [[female]]. Male tortoiseshells are rare and usually have a genetic anomaly such as [[Klinefelter syndrome]].
-==Uses==
+== Characteristics ==
-Historically, tortoiseshell was used in the manufacture of:
+Tortoiseshell cats are known for their "tortitude," a term used to describe their feisty and independent personalities. They are often described as being strong-willed and energetic.
-* '''Combs and Brushes''': Tortoiseshell was a popular material for combs and hairbrushes due to its smooth texture and attractive appearance.
+== Breeds ==
-* '''Spectacle Frames''': The material was used to make eyeglass frames, prized for their aesthetic appeal.
+While the tortoiseshell pattern can appear in many breeds, some of the most common include the [[American Shorthair]], [[British Shorthair]], and [[Persian cat]].
-* '''Inlay Work''': Tortoiseshell was often used in marquetry and inlay work, particularly in furniture and musical instruments.
-* '''Jewelry''': It was used to create brooches, earrings, and other decorative items.
-==Conservation and Legal Status==
+== Health ==
-Due to the overexploitation of the Hawksbill sea turtle, the trade of tortoiseshell has been heavily restricted. The [[Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora]] (CITES) lists the Hawksbill turtle as a critically endangered species, and international trade in tortoiseshell is banned.
+Tortoiseshell cats generally have the same health concerns as other cats. However, male tortoiseshells, due to their genetic makeup, may have additional health issues related to their chromosomal abnormalities.
-==Alternatives==
+== Cultural Significance ==
-With the decline in the availability of natural tortoiseshell, various alternatives have been developed, including:
+In some cultures, tortoiseshell cats are considered to bring good luck. They are sometimes referred to as "money cats" in the United States.
-* '''Celluloid''': One of the first synthetic plastics, celluloid was used as a substitute for tortoiseshell in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
+== See also ==
-* '''Modern Plastics''': Today, various plastics are used to mimic the appearance of tortoiseshell in products such as eyeglass frames and jewelry.
+* [[Calico cat]]
+* [[Cat coat genetics]]
+* [[List of cat breeds]]
-==Cultural Significance==
+== References ==
-Tortoiseshell has held cultural significance in various societies. In Japan, for example, it is known as "bekko" and has been used in traditional crafts. In Western cultures, it has been associated with luxury and elegance.
+{{reflist}}
-==Ethical Considerations==
+== External links ==
-The use of tortoiseshell raises ethical concerns due to the impact on endangered species. Conservation efforts focus on protecting the remaining populations of Hawksbill turtles and promoting the use of sustainable alternatives.
+* [https://www.wikimd.com/wiki/Tortoiseshell Original article on WikiMD]
-==Also see==
+[[Category:Cats]]
-* [[Hawksbill sea turtle]]
+[[Category:Cat coat patterns]]
-* [[CITES]]
+[[Category:Genetics]]
-* [[Celluloid]]
-* [[Endangered species]]
-{{Conservation}}
-{{Materials}}
-[[Category:Materials]]
-[[Category:Conservation]]
-[[Category:Endangered species]]