- reminder to self moo: This page will contain BOTH the how to read a genotype guide (Move the gene pass guide to a different page) -
- Guide terminology
- Genotype vs Phenotype
- Base - E vs A and all variations 
- List of all Nordanner Genes AND Gene Tiers
- Sample Genotypes and how to read your genotype. 

​Guide Terminology

*The terms defined in this section define not only the terms for this webpage, but also the terms in the Design Guides in general. 

Base Coat / Base -- Refers to the status of extension, agouti, and any dilutes the horse has. 
Extension -- The 'E' portion of your horse's genotype. 
Agouti -- The 'A' portion of your horse's genotype. 
Dilute -- Any gene which drastically alters the horse's base coat color. These are listed under Dilutes on the Design Guides page. 
Modifier -- A gene which 'modifies' the appearance of the horse, but does not typically drastically alter the horse's base coat color. However, a few modifiers may also act similarly to dilutes. 
Genotype -- The letter code comprised of all the genes that your horse has. 
Phenotype -- The description of your horse's color that is listed in conjunction with your horse's genotype. 
Desaturate -- In short, to reduce the coloration, making it appear as a different or lighter color within the same color range. In Nordanner genes, this refers to how different genes will lighten or shift the color of the base coat, while still retaining the rules of the underlying base. If there are any exceptions, they are listed on the gene's page. 
Topline -- In general, referring to the "top" of a horse -- meaning the uppermost portions. This includes the poll, crest of the neck, withers, back, and top of the rump. 

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Genotype vs Phenotype