HPS SPARKS
Supporting Pedigree Analysis and Rare Kinship Selection
SPARKS is an advisory genetic management programme designed to help Highland Pony breeders make informed decisions that promote genetic diversity and long-term breed health.
What is SPARKS?
SPARKS is a computer-based genetic management system that calculates Mean Kinship values for Highland Ponies. It measures how closely related any individual pony is to all other ponies in the population, helping breeders understand the potential genetic consequences of different mating choices.
Why Genetic Diversity Matters
Inbreeding can accumulate in closed populations like pedigree breeds. While sometimes used to fix desirable traits, excessive inbreeding leads to serious problems:
How SPARKS Works
Mean Kinship Calculation
SPARKS analyses pedigree data to calculate the Mean Kinship value for each pony. This represents how genetically related an individual is to the rest of the breeding population.
Inbreeding Coefficient Prediction
For any proposed mating, SPARKS calculates the potential inbreeding coefficient of the offspring. This helps breeders assess whether a pairing will maintain healthy genetic diversity.
Tier Classification
Based on the predicted inbreeding coefficient, matings are classified into one of four colour-coded tiers, making it easy to identify the most genetically beneficial pairings.
The SPARKS Tier System
Tier 1: SPARKS Compliant
Matings that maintain genetic diversity. These pairings are encouraged and represent best practice for breed health.
Tier 2: Alternative Options
Acceptable pairings with somewhat higher inbreeding coefficients. May be appropriate when Tier 1 options are not available.
Tier 3: Discouraged Pairings
Pairings that would produce offspring with elevated inbreeding levels. Use with caution and consider alternatives.
Tier 4: Highly Inbred - Avoid
Matings resulting in inbreeding coefficients of 0.1 or higher. These pairings significantly risk the health of offspring and should be avoided.
Understanding the 0.1 Threshold
An inbreeding coefficient of 0.1 or higher indicates that the offspring would be as inbred as if produced by a half-sibling mating. Such high levels of inbreeding significantly increase the risk of health problems and should be avoided.
Important Limitations
Please be aware of the following when using SPARKS recommendations:
- SPARKS tables are valid for one year only and must be regenerated annually
- Usage is entirely voluntary and advisory - not mandatory
- SPARKS assesses genetic health only, not physical attributes or conformation
- Recommendations are based on pedigree data available in the Stud Book
- Individual breeding decisions remain the responsibility of the owner
Annual Updates
SPARKS tables are regenerated annually to reflect new registrations and changes in the breeding population. Always ensure you are using the current year's tables when planning matings.
Using SPARKS in Practice
To use SPARKS, breeders receive tables showing recommended stallions for each mare, colour-coded by tier. When selecting a stallion:
- Look for Tier 1 (green) options first - these maintain the best genetic diversity
- Consider Tier 2 (yellow) stallions if no suitable Tier 1 options are available
- Avoid Tier 3 (orange) and especially Tier 4 (red) pairings where possible
- Remember that SPARKS addresses genetics only - also consider conformation, temperament, and other factors
Access SPARKS Information
SPARKS tables and guidance are available to Highland Pony Society members. Contact the office for current year tables or for assistance with interpreting recommendations.
Questions About SPARKS?
The Society office can provide guidance on using SPARKS, help interpret recommendations, or explain how genetic diversity management benefits the Highland Pony breed.