Bearded dragons come in a variety of colors and patterns. One of the most sought-after colorations is the “dunner” morph. Dunner bearded dragons have a light brown or tan base color with darker brown patches or stripes. This gives them a unique appearance reminiscent of a wild lizard. But what exactly makes a bearded dragon a dunner? There are a few key characteristics that set dunner dragons apart.
Genetics
A bearded dragon’s color and pattern are determined by its genetics. Dunner dragons get their distinctive look from a recessive gene mutation. Both parents must carry the dunner gene for it to be expressed physically in the offspring. If only one parent has the gene, the babies may still carry it recessively and have the potential to produce dunners if bred with another carrier.
The specific genetic mutation behind the dunner morph results in lower black pigment production. Melanin is the dark pigment that gives bearded dragons their brown and black colors. Dunner dragons have less melanin in certain areas, leading to a lighter overall coloration with darker patches.
Appearance
In addition to their light brown or tan base color, dunner bearded dragons have some signature markings that help identify them:
– Irregular darker brown patches or stripes on the body and limbs
– Darker bands or spots on the tail
– A lighter colored underside and throat, often pale yellow or white
– Darker brown patches on the head, especially around the eyes and nose
The patterning can range from very faint to quite prominent. Some dunners may have very subtle striping while others have distinctive high-contrast spots and stripes. The darkness of the markings also varies. Overall, the unique patched or striped appearance over a light base color helps set dunner dragons apart.
Morph Combinations
The dunner genetic mutation can be combined with other bearded dragon color morphs to produce some very interesting effects! Some potential dunner mix morphs include:
– Dunner citrus tiger – Striking yellow and white base color with dark dunner patches
– Dunner leatherback – Lighter body and dark spots with the leatherback reduced scalation
– Dunner silkback – Lack of scales enhances the color contrast
– Dunner translucent – Patches over a see-through skin revealing underlying reds and oranges
– Dunner witblits – Pure white body with minimal dunner markings
– Dunner hypomelanistic – Very light base with reduced dark pigment in the markings
Mixing the dunner gene with other morphs expands the variety available. Breeders can create unique dragons by combining traits.
Breeding Dunners
So how can you produce dunner bearded dragons? As a recessive mutation, both parents must carry the dunner gene in order to produce dunner offspring. There are a couple potential breeding scenarios:
Dunner x Dunner
Breeding two visible dunners together will produce 100% dunner babies. However, limited genetic diversity can be an issue with this pairing.
Dunner x Het Dunner
Breeding a dunner with a dragon that carries dunner recessively (“het” dunner) will produce roughly 50% dunners and 50% hets. This adds genetic diversity.
Het Dunner x Het Dunner
Two hets can also be bred to produce around 25% dunner babies. The remaining 75% will be hets.
To identify hidden hets not showing the dunner pattern visibly, test breeding is needed. Hets bred to normal dragons will produce some dunner offspring.
Breeding two normal looking dragons can also produce dunners if both carry the recessive gene. Any resulting dunner babies confirm both parents are hets.
Cost
The dunner morph is considered relatively rare and desirable in the bearded dragon community. As such, they tend to have a higher purchase price than standard dragons, especially from top breeders. Prices may range from $75 up to $500+ depending on the breeder and any mix of other morphs.
Factors like color intensity, pattern contrast, and mix with other desirable traits can impact price. More unique or visually striking dunners tend to cost more. Reduced price dunners may have lower contrast markings or less ideal color distribution.
Care
Dunner dragons have the same basic care requirements as other beardies. Here are some key care guidelines:
Enclosure
– Minimum size of 40-55 gallons for an adult
– Proper lighting and heating with a basking spot of 95-105 F
– Hide box and adequate substrate for burrowing
Diet
– Primarily insects as babies (crickets, roaches, worms)
– More greens and veggies as adults
– Calcium and vitamin supplements
Health
– Wellness checks for parasites or other issues
– Keep nails trimmed
– Give baths to support hydration
With their proper care needs met, dunner dragons can live a full 6-10 years. Their colors and patterns may become more pronounced with age.
Personality
Dunner bearded dragons have the same potential range of personalities as other beardies. Much depends on their individual temperament and how they are raised.
In general, beardies are solitary reptiles that don’t require companionship. But with regular handling, most dunner dragons become quite docile and comfortable with their owners. They can readily be hand fed and enjoy time out of their enclosures.
An alert and active lizard, the dunner beardie likes to explore its environment. But it also enjoys basking under its heat lamp and spending peaceful time relaxing. Dunners make an excellent intermediate level pet reptile when provided with proper care.
Conclusion
The dunner color morph results in a uniquely patterned bearded dragon. Lower melanin production leads to a light brown or tan base color with irregular darker patches and stripes. When bred from dunner to dunner pairings, this recessive genetic trait is expressed fully. Combining with other morphs can create some very beautiful and rare dragon variations.
Dunner bearded dragons require the same basic care and handling as normal beardies. Their distinctive appearance and genetics make them highly prized by collectors and breeders. With proper attention to their habitat, diet, and health needs, a dunner dragon can thrive and delight its owner with its colors and behaviors for years to come.
