A black panther is not a distinct species but a term often used to refer to melanistic big cats, primarily leopards and jaguars, that have a genetic variation resulting in a dark, almost entirely black coat.
These melanistic individuals have the same physical characteristics as their non-melanistic counterparts but possess a dark coloration due to an abundance of the pigment melanin in their fur.
Black panthers are found in various parts of the world, including Africa and the Americas. They are elusive and known for their stealth and adaptability, making them iconic and mysterious creatures in the animal kingdom.