The term "panther" is often used to refer specifically to black leopards (Panthera pardus) or black jaguars (Panthera onca). Therefore, while a black panther is a type of panther, not all panthers are black.
Is a panther the same species as black panther?
A black panther is a melanistic variant of any big cat species. Black panthers are not a separate species, but rather individuals with a genetic mutation that causes them to produce more melanin, resulting in a black coat. Melanism occurs in various big cat species, including leopards, jaguars, and mountain lions.