Help Requested in Coat Color Study

The University of Minnesota Equine Genetics and Genomics Laboratory is investigating the genetic basis of the mealy (or pangaré) coat color. This trait causes lightening of the coat color around the flanks, behind the elbows, around the muzzle, and sometimes around the eye. The mealy color variation is common in Norwegian Fjords, Halflingers, Belgians, and donkeys.

Researchers are looking for horses of all breed types with and without the mealy coat color, and are especially interested in Norwegian Fjords, Halflingers, Belgians, and donkeys both with and without the mealy coat color.

Horse owners interested in helping with this research are asked to contact Dr. Jessica Petersen at [email protected].