Abstract
Genetic diversity and demographic parameters were computed to evaluate the historic effects of coat colour segregation in the process of configuration of the Hispano-Arabian horse (Há). Pedigree records from 207,100 individuals born between 1884 and 2019 were used. Although coat colour is not a determinant for the admission of Hispano-Arabian individuals as apt for breeding, it may provide a representative visual insight into the gene contribution of Spanish Purebred horses (PRE), given many of the dilution genes described in Há are not present in the Arabian Purebred breed (PRá). The lack of consideration of coat colour inheritance patterns by the entities in charge of individual registration and the dodging behaviour of breeders towards the historic banning policies, may have acted as a buffer for diversity loss (lower than 8%). Inbreeding levels ranged from 1.81% in smokey cream horses to 8.80 for white horses. Contextually, crossbred breeding may increase the likelihood for double dilute combinations to occur as denoted by the increased number of Há horses displaying Pearl coats (53 Há against 3 PRE and 0 PRá). Bans against certain coat colours and patterns may have prevented an appropriate registration of genealogical information from the 4th generation onwards for decades. This may have brought about the elongation of generation intervals. Breeder tastes may have returned to the formerly officially-recognised coat colours (Grey and Bay) and Chestnut/Sorrel. However, coat colour conditioning effects must be evaluated timely for relatively short specific periods, as these may describe cyclic patterns already described in owners’ and breeders’ tastes over the centuries.
Highlights
The proportion of yearly history, with bay horsesdecrease representing the most numerous fractions across the born breeds animalsanalysed, across coat colour subgroups and sexes maintained throughout years three and of the whole population considered in the119 present of history, with2 grey andEven bay horses representing most numerous the study (Figures and 3)
If proportions were the maintained, numberfractions of birthsacross was histhree breeds analysed, and of the whole population considered in the present study torically considerably higher in Purebred horses (PRE) horses when compared to PRá and Há horses (Figures 2When and 3).the
PRá, 30% PRE) reported by Marín Navas et al [10], our results suggest coat colour allelic richness may presumably be ascribed to a PRE origin
Summary
Coat colour may have played a major role during the early domestication events and initial selection of the domestic horse [1]. Colour and marking patterns would become a relevant practical tool for individual identification [2,3], and, for the confirmation of allelic segregation between parents in the era of genetics. This enables the distinction among the individuals of particular breeds [4]. The diversity of the coat colours of Spanish ancient horses was depicted in ancient paintings and referenced in literature [5]. Certain white markings such as appaloosa, piebald or skewbald, have been described in the art and literature from many centuries ago
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