What are primitive markings that are found on several breeds of horses?

Primitive markings refer to specific color patterns or physical characteristics that are considered original or foundational traits in certain horse breeds. These markings often include features such as stripes on the legs, dorsal stripes along the back, or shoulder stripes, which may be indicative of the horse's ancestry and genetic background. They are often found in breeds that have maintained certain characteristics over time, such as the Fjord, Appaloosa, and some types of wild horses. Recognizing primitive markings can help in understanding the horse's heritage and breed identity, which is essential in horse evaluation.

The other options represent different concepts. Fleabitten refers to a coat color pattern often associated with grey horses that have a speckled appearance, primarily due to white hairs. Piebalds are specific color combinations involving large patches of black and white, generally seen in particular breeds. Color patterns encompass a broad range of visual traits that can vary widely, but primitive markings specifically denote the basic and ancestral traits tied to a horse's lineage.