* Protection: The mane helps protect the horse's neck from sun, rain, and insects, especially in hot climates.
* Communication: Mane length and appearance can be a signal of the horse's health, age, and even social status within a herd.
* Sensory: The mane may also have some sensory function, helping the horse detect changes in the environment.
* Cooling: The mane can help regulate the horse's body temperature by allowing air to circulate around the neck.
* Defense: In some cases, the mane may help protect the horse from predators.
It's worth noting that mane length and style vary greatly between horse breeds, and some breeds have naturally shorter or even no manes.