Primitive markings are also called countershading, false dun, or by its scientific name non-dun1. Primitive markings are dorsal stripes, leg barring, shoulder stripes, and cobwebbing/spiderwebbing. There's a genetic test for primitive markings. Primitive markings, particularly dorsal stripes, are common in Chincoteague Ponies. Some dorsal stripes may be due to sooty.
Dun (D) is the original color of horses and they have primitive markings with a diluted coat color. Dun is dominant and can not skip generations. Dun is not found in Chincoteague Ponies.
Non-dun1 (nd1) ponies have primitive markings but do not have a diluted coat color. A pony with one or two copies of nd1 can have primitive markings. nd1 is found in Chincoteague Ponies and was verified by testing.
Non-dun2 (nd2) causes ponies to not have primitive markings and not have a diluted coat color. A pony with two copies of nd2 will not have primitive markings. nd2 is found in Chincoteague Ponies and was verified by testing.
Non-dun1 (nd1) ponies have primitive markings but do not have a diluted coat color. A pony with one or two copies of nd1 can have primitive markings. nd1 is found in Chincoteague Ponies and was verified by testing.
Non-dun2 (nd2) causes ponies to not have primitive markings and not have a diluted coat color. A pony with two copies of nd2 will not have primitive markings. nd2 is found in Chincoteague Ponies and was verified by testing.
It's likely primitive markings have been in Chincoteague Ponies throughout their history.
Dorsal stripe and leg barring on a solid bay. Tested nd1/nd1.
Assateague's Spirited Lady (Ajax x Courtney's Island Dove) Pedigree Photos courtesy of Rebekah Hart. |
Buckskin tobiano with dorsal stripe.
CLG Tomorrow's Tidewater Twist (Tornado's Legacy x Sweetheart) Pedigree |
Chestnut tobiano splashed white with a dorsal stripe.
Butterfly Kisses (Courtney's Boy x Thetis) Pedigree |
Chestnut with a dorsal stripe. Tested nd2/nd1.
Wave Runner's Kenzie (Ken x Kimmee Sue) Pedigree Photo courtesy of Rebekah Hart. |
Bay tobiano with a dorsal as a foal and as an adult.
Amari's Journey (Don Leonard Stud II x Randy) Pedigree |