Which factor contributes to the skin color variation in newborns?

The factor that contributes to the skin color variation in newborns is genetic background. Skin color in newborns is primarily determined by the amount and type of melanin produced by melanocytes, which is influenced by the genetic heritage inherited from their parents. This genetic makeup dictates various pigments responsible for the diverse range of skin colors observed in different populations.

Differences in skin color among newborns can also be reflective of ancestral adaptation to varying environmental conditions, which is rooted in genetic factors. For example, populations that originated from different geographical areas have adapted to their environments over thousands of years, resulting in variations related to UV exposure and other environmental pressures.

Subcutaneous fat deposits, environmental exposure, and crying intensity, while they may have their roles in broader developmental contexts, do not specifically account for the inherent skin color differences among newborns. Therefore, understanding the primary contribution of genetic background helps clarify the biological basis of skin color variation in neonates.