Scientists aim to identify ‘spooky’ genes in new equine research

A horse participating in a teaching demonstration at the Horse Teaching Unit. Photo taken 05-15-19.

(Image credit: UF/IFAS Photo by Cristina Carrizosa)

Research on horses’ initial and longer-term reactions to startling objects could help identify genes associated with “spookier” horses, it is hoped.

Scientists at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) have published a study on equine responses, as part of work that could identify genes that influence horses’ tendency to react in a certain way to, for example, flapping plastic bags.

In this peer-reviewed study, published in journal Genes, UF/IFAS professor of equine genetics Samatha Brooks and her team worked with a group of young horses who are part of the institute’s breeding program.

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Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.

Scientists aim to identify ‘spooky’ genes in new equine research

“Identifying these genetic traits would be a first step toward one day selecting or breeding horses for the temperament types we prefer,” a university spokesman said. “These research results might be a decade away.”

In this peer-reviewed study, published in journal Genes, UF/IFAS professor of equine genetics Samatha Brooks and her team worked with a group of young horses who are part of the institute’s breeding program.

“We can’t read their minds,” said Professor Brooks. “Their heart rate tells us what is going on inside that we cannot see from reading their body language alone. It was interesting to see the stories their heart rates told us.”

The data showed there were two clear groups. One was startled by the umbrella, showing a spike in heart rate, then maintained a reactive or hyper-alert state afterwards, including more time spent looking at and moving away from the umbrella.

The second group startled in much the same way, with a heart-rate spike, but then “calmed quickly and carried on with their day”.

“These animals perceived the stimulus and found it startling but did not go through the behavioural patterns of avoidance, fear, etc. like the first group,” the spokesman said.

The team will now take the data and develop a study to investigate the genetic components that may influence how horses react to fear.

Understanding a horse’s reaction to uncomfortable situations could also make a difference in how it is handled for transport and veterinary procedures.

Professor Brooks added that whether it is a top sport horse, a therapy pony or pulling a carriage, an unplanned startle response can be an issue.

“We are just beginning to scratch the surface of this,” Professor Brooks said. “It might take us 10 years or more to really have a clear understanding, but it is worth the effort.”

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“Identifying these genetic traits would be a first step toward one day selecting or breeding horses for the temperament types we prefer,” a university spokesman said. “These research results might be a decade away.”

In this peer-reviewed study, published in journal Genes, UF/IFAS professor of equine genetics Samatha Brooks and her team worked with a group of young horses who are part of the institute’s breeding program.

“We can’t read their minds,” said Professor Brooks. “Their heart rate tells us what is going on inside that we cannot see from reading their body language alone. It was interesting to see the stories their heart rates told us.”

The data showed there were two clear groups. One was startled by the umbrella, showing a spike in heart rate, then maintained a reactive or hyper-alert state afterwards, including more time spent looking at and moving away from the umbrella.

The second group startled in much the same way, with a heart-rate spike, but then “calmed quickly and carried on with their day”.

“These animals perceived the stimulus and found it startling but did not go through the behavioural patterns of avoidance, fear, etc. like the first group,” the spokesman said.

The team will now take the data and develop a study to investigate the genetic components that may influence how horses react to fear.

Understanding a horse’s reaction to uncomfortable situations could also make a difference in how it is handled for transport and veterinary procedures.

Professor Brooks added that whether it is a top sport horse, a therapy pony or pulling a carriage, an unplanned startle response can be an issue.

“We are just beginning to scratch the surface of this,” Professor Brooks said. “It might take us 10 years or more to really have a clear understanding, but it is worth the effort.”

You might also be interested in:

6 things only the owners of spooky horses will understand

Horses can discriminate between different letters, research finds

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