The Appaloosa is an American horse breed best known for its colorful spotted pattern. There is a wide range of body types within the breed, stemming from the influence of multiple breeds of horses throughout its history. Each horse's color pattern is genetically the result of various spotting patterns overlaid on top of one of several recognized base coat colors.

The color pattern of the Appaloosa is of interest to those who study equine coat color genetics as it and several other physical characteristics are linked to the leopard complex mutation - LP (is a group of genetically related coat patterns in horses.). Appaloosa's are prone to develop equine recurrent uveitis (is an acute, nongranulomatous inflammation of the uveal tract of the eye, occurring commonly in horses of all breeds, worldwide.) and congenital stationary night blindness; the latter has been linked to the leopard complex.

Today the Appaloosa is one of the most popular breeds in the United States; it was named the official state horse of Idaho in 1975. It is best known as a stock horse used in a number of western riding disciplines, but is also a versatile breed with representatives seen in many other types of equestrian activity.

Appaloosa's have been used in many movies; an Appaloosa is the mascot for the Florida State Seminoles. Appaloosa bloodlines have influenced other horse breeds including the 'Pony of the Americas', the 'Nez Perce House', and several gaited horse breeds.

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