Mushroom coat colour (MFSD12-related) - Horse

Mushroom coat colour in horses

This DNA test examines Mushroom, a recessive dilution colour in horses. It detects the MFSD12 variant c.600dupC. The trait is also known as mushroom dilution, Mu or Mushroom colour.

Mushroom mainly modifies red pigment and can give the coat a sepia, beige, taupe or mushroom-like shade. The effect is most relevant in pony and miniature lines where the Mu allele occurs. Other colour genes also influence how clearly the final colour is expressed.

Inheritance and result

• N/N means the tested Mushroom variant was not detected.
• N/Mu means the horse is a carrier.
• Mu/Mu causes Mushroom dilution.

Practical value of this test

The result helps breeders identify hidden carriers, plan Mushroom colours deliberately and explain unexpected dilution colours in foals. For sale, registration and breeding combinations, the test gives clarity before the colour is fully developed.