What does the term "depth of color carried down a hair shaft" refer to?

The term "depth of color carried down a hair shaft" specifically refers to the concept of extension in rabbit fur and other animal coats. This means how deeply the color penetrates into the individual hair strand, affecting the overall appearance and quality of the coat. In rabbits, extension plays a critical role in determining the intensity and richness of color, contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal when evaluating them in competitions like the Maricopa County Fair.

Understanding this concept is essential for breeders and exhibitors because it influences the recognition of color patterns and the quality of the fur, which are important criteria in rabbit judging. Recognizing the correct depth of color can help enhance the selection of breeding stock for desired traits, thereby improving future generations.