SCIENTIFIC CLASSIFICATION - Some experts state that all cheetah alive today are as closely related as identical twins. But subspecies in identical twins  seem to be a contradiction.  So are there true difference in cheetah subspecies?  Variations in fur length, spot diameter and body size make up the bulk of the described variations.  CARO describes A.j. velox as having "longer hair than jubatus, especially on nape and belly..." and A.j. hecki with a "small body size, dainty, pale", etc.  DIVYABHANUSINH describes those living in the Sahara Desert as lighter in color; those living in wooded areas as darker; those living in cold climates having longer fur. Perhaps a cheetah's outward appearance depends on its environment.