Question

Recently in Antarctica, a penguin with all black feathers was

discovered. This trait had never been seen before. What is
the likely source for this "new" trait?

Answer 1

The penguin in question has a rare genetic mutation called melanism, which makes skin, fur, and feathers black due to a high concentration of the pigment melanin. It's basically the opposite of albinism, which is caused by a lack of pigment.