This Thoroughbred mare is an example of a horse with dark bay coat color. Generally bay horses are characterized by a red-brown body color and black "points" (legs, mane, tail). This is due to the interaction between two genes, one called "Extension" that is responsible for a basic black body color, and another gene called "Agouti" which restricts the black color to the animal's points. However, in this case, a modifier gene is also acting to reduce Agouti's ability to restrict the black pigment. The result is a horse that looks totally black at first glance, but upon closer inspection one can see the brown color on the horse's muzzle and flank. Some breed registries, such as the Thoroughbred, may call this color "Brown".

Dark bay or brown coat color

Credit: Rebecca K. Splan

Digital Credit: Rebecca K. Splan

Publisher: None

Rights: Name must appear as a credit whenever the image is used -

Description: This Thoroughbred mare is an example of a horse with dark bay coat color. Generally bay horses are characterized by a red-brown body color and black "points" (legs, mane, tail). This is due to the interaction between two genes, one called "Extension" that is responsible for a basic black body color, and another gene called "Agouti" which restricts the black color to the animal's points. However, in this case, a modifier gene is also acting to reduce Agouti's ability to restrict the black pigment. The result is a horse that looks totally black at first glance, but upon closer inspection one can see the brown color on the horse's muzzle and flank. Some breed registries, such as the Thoroughbred, may call this color "Brown".

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Dark bay or brown coat color

Credit: Rebecca K. Splan

Digital Credit: Rebecca K. Splan

Publisher: None