Equine Color Genetics

Equine Color Genetics, Fourth Edition presents a detailed examination of the color variation in horses and donkeys and the genetic mechanisms that produce color variations. Offering information on how to tailor breeding programs to maximize desired color outcomes, the text bridges the gap between the scientific and lay communities without ignoring the intricate and complex details involved in horse and donkey color genetics. The Fourth Edition has been extensively updated and revised, providing new information on advances in knowledge of the genetic loci and molecular mechanisms involved and excellent visual aids to present difficult concepts.

Many of the color photographs have been updated to give a greater depiction of the coat color variation that exists in horses and donkeys, and a new glossary of terms aids in the understanding of the complexity of the molecular genetics. Equine Color Genetics is an essential reference for anyone wanting to understand coat color and the genetic basis for color variation in horses and donkeys.

Key features

Thoroughly covers the basic colors in horses, including bay, chestnut, black, and brown

Details the genetic basis of the colors built from the basic coat color, including dilutions and white patterning

Provides an explanation of genetic mechanisms that determine coat color

Presents a thorough revision and update, including new advances in molecular genetics, biochemistry, molecular mechanisms, genetic loci, coat colors before domestication, and more

Offers a new introduction describing the principles of genetics and genomics research to help outline how knowledge is discovered and to assist the reader in understanding concepts covered in the book