What pattern is uniquely identified by a white blanket over the hips in Appaloosas?

The pattern that is uniquely identified by a white blanket over the hips in Appaloosas is the blanket pattern itself. This distinctive marking features a solid or patterned area of color on the body of the horse, with a stark contrast created by the white area over the hips. The blanket can vary in size and may even have spots or other patterns within it, but the key characteristic is the presence of this white area that forms a "blanket" across the hindquarters. Understanding this pattern is essential for recognizing and describing the diverse coloration and markings exhibited by Appaloosas, a breed known for its unique coat patterns.

In contrast, the snowflake pattern describes lighter spots on a darker coat but does not specifically indicate the blanket area. The leopard pattern is characterized by bold spots all over the horse's body, similar to those of a leopard, while the marble pattern pertains to a different type of coloration and is not exclusive to the Appaloosa breed.