Definition
The term *black fox* typically refers to a color variation of the red fox (*Vulpes vulpes*). These foxes have a melanistic coat, meaning they have an increased amount of dark pigment. They are not a separate species but a color morph within the red fox population. Think of it like having different hair colors in humans; they're still the same species. The black coat provides excellent camouflage in certain environments. It's a striking example of genetic variation within a species.