Yes, it is possible for two light-skinned parents to have a dark-skinned baby. This is because skin color is determined by multiple genes, and each parent contributes half of their genetic material to their child.
If both parents have ancestors with darker skin, they could carry the genes for darker skin even if they themselves have lighter skin. The genes for darker skin could be passed on to their child, resulting in a darker complexion than either parent.
For example, if both parents have a grandparent with dark skin, they could both carry the gene for darker skin. There is a chance their child could inherit two copies of this gene, one from each parent, leading to a darker skin tone.
Here's a simplified explanation:
- Genes for skin color: People have multiple genes that influence their skin color.
- Inherited genes: Each parent contributes half of their genes to their child.
- Recessive genes: Some genes for darker skin might be "recessive", meaning they only show up in the child's appearance if they receive two copies of that gene, one from each parent.
Therefore, even if both parents have lighter skin, there's a chance they could have a child with a darker skin tone if they both carry the gene for darker skin.
