Another significant reason for the zebra's stripes is to deter biting insects, particularly horse flies. Studies have shown that the striped pattern of a zebra's coat disrupts the polarized light that attracts these insects. As a result, zebras are bitten less frequently than animals with solid.
The striking black and white stripes of a zebra have long captivated human curiosity, leading to questions about their true color and the evolutionary reasons for their distinctive pattern. These patterns create a visual paradox, making zebras instantly recognizable yet simultaneously mysterious in their natural habitat. Rudyard Kipling playfully wrote that zebras stripes were due to "the slippery-slidy shadows of the trees" falling on its body but are scientists getting closer to the truth? Why Zebras Got Their Stripes SCIENCE You would think that someone would have come up with the definitive answer by now, but, in fact, the reason zebras have stripes remains a biological mystery.
Scientists have a pretty good idea, however. (New Yorker) Use our resources to read between the lines of evolution and natural selection. Unravel the mystery of zebras' true color in our exploration of whether they are white with black stripes or black with white stripes.
Delve into the fascinating science behind zebra coat development. Is this the reason zebras have stripes? Today, we answer this question with help from National Geographic. A zebra's iconic black and white stripes have stumped scientists since Darwin's time.
Now, thanks to a recent study published in the Royal Society Open Science, we find ourselves one step closer to an answer. Explore surprising theories about why zebras have stripes from deterring flies to confusing predators and even regulating body heat. In fact, the patterns of the black and white stripes on a zebra are an evolutionary adaptation that has benefits for the animals.
Several different and plausible hypotheses have been proposed for the reason behind the stripes ever since Charles Darwin first came on the scene. Even he puzzled over the significance of the stripes. Zebras belong to the same equine family as horses and donkeys.
After their lineage entered Africa, they evolved into three zebra species, lived in social herds, grazed on grasses, and evaded fierce predators. One mystery that has perplexed prominent scientists for decades is the matter of their coats: why are they striped? Cella Wright digs into the common theories about the unique patterning. A zebra has black skin, with both black and white fur.
(Image: Wikipedia) Now the why they have black and white stripes is a little trickier. We understand pretty well why a stripe is white and why it is black. And why different species of zebras have a different number of stripes.
What we don't yet understand is exactly how it happens.