What is the difference between a phenotypic deviant and a mutant?
Phenotypic deviant mice have one or more trait measurements that, based on an initial survey, appear to be out of the normal range compared to baseline values. These mice also may have physical dysmorphologies that are apparent by simple observation of the animals. These deviations may or may not be heritable. After retesting to confirm the initial observation, the phenotypic deviant is posted on the Center’s Web site. Phenotypic deviants are considered to be mutant mice if the aberrant trait or traits that they display are proven to be heritable.
