The Science Behind Eye Color: Genetics, Melanin, and Iris Function

Brown is the most common eye color in the world, with 70-80% of the population having some shade of brown.

Eye color is primarily determined by the amount and distribution of melanin in the iris.

The first light-eyed person likely had a genetic mutation that caused their body to produce less melanin, which was passed on to their descendants.

Dark iris color is associated with less scattering of light in the eye, which may be protective under conditions of bright sunlight and high UVR.

Blue eye color is associated with greater light scattering in the eye and a higher level of melatonin suppression

Up to 16 genes determine eye color, but two on chromosome 15 influence it the most.

Eye color is more complicated than just being determined by parents' eye color, as it may also be linked to skin and hair color.

The iris is responsible for dilating and contracting the pupil to let the right amount of light into the eye.

The iris is made up of muscle and connective tissue.

The amount and distribution of melanin within the iris layers

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