Which term describes a rabbit color pattern with a dark surface and lighter components underneath?

The term that best describes a rabbit color pattern characterized by a dark surface and lighter components underneath is indeed "shaded." In shaded color patterns, the rabbit usually has a darker coloration on the outer layers of its fur, while the undercoat or inner fur consists of lighter hues. This creates a striking contrast and adds depth to the rabbit's overall appearance.

In contrast, "agouti" generally refers to a color pattern where each hair is banded with different colors, typically seen in wild-type rabbits. "Self" indicates a uniform coloration throughout, with no variations in shades, which does not align with the description. "Ticked" refers to a pattern where individual hairs have colored bands, but it does not create the same depth of dark surface against a lighter undercoat as seen in shaded rabbits. Hence, the description fits "shaded" perfectly, as it highlights the contrast between the dark surface layer and the lighter layer underneath.