Leopard complex

A single autosomal dominant gene, leopard complex (LP), is responsible for different spotting patterns while modifier genes are thought to play a role in determining the amount of white patterning that is inherited. These patterns are called from lightest to darkest: „few spot leopard“, „leopard“, „snowcap blanket“, „blanket with spots“, „varnish roan (marble)“, „snowflake“, „frosted“, „speckled“ and „mottled“. Homozygosity for LP (LP/LP) is directly associated with congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB) in Appaloosa horses. Heterozygous carriers (LP/lp) are not affected. CSNB is characterized by impaired vision in dark conditions, and is present at birth.