third addition was just published in 2009. Color genetics in horses has
sure come a long way, and getting more complicated with each new color
identified. One of the newest colors to be identified is being called
"Mushroom". It is a dilution gene that effects the red pigment on chestnut
horses. It is similar to the the Silver Dapple gene that dilutes the black
on black and bay horses (so they have light mane and tails).
The mushroom gene is recessive and only been studied in chestnuts. Being
recessive, the horse must have two copies of the gene for it to be
expressed. "The body color is usually a flat beige or sepia, and the mane
and tails are usually paler than the body." Sponenberg goes on to say:
"Mushroom has only been documented in a few breeds, such as the Shetland
Pony, HAFLINGER, and perhaps the American Quarter Horse. It is very rare
whenever it is found." And that is it - just one comment regarding the
Haflinger and Mushroom on page 63.
I thought this reference interesting and wanted to mention it to the list.
I can imagine that if "mushroom" did exist in the Haflinger breed, it would
be frowned upon, and bred out. But being recessive, it could be hiding
anywhere. I do wonder if some of the "chocolate" Haflingers I've seen
pictures of could be Mushroom.
Stephanie in Elma, WA
with way too much time on her hands.....
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