The black panther is not a separate species of big cat but is actually a melanistic color variant of several species of big cats, including leopards, jaguars, and even cougars. Melanism is a genetic mutation that causes an increase in black pigmentation in the fur, making the animal appear all black or nearly so. The term "panther" is often used to refer to these black-colored big cats, although it technically refers to any big cat of the genus Panthera, which includes lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars. Black panthers are found in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas, and are known for their stealth, strength, and beauty.