Why Do Zebras Have Black and White Stripes? Explore New Theories
The Mystery of Zebras’ Black and White Stripes
Zebras with their distinctive black and white striped coats have always attracted attention and raised many questions about the function of these stripes. Scientists have long debated why this animal possesses such special stripes. Recently, a study from Eotvos Lorand University (Budapest, Hungary) has proposed a new hypothesis that may partly solve this mystery.
New Hypothesis: Preventing Blood-sucking Insects
According to a study published in the journal of the Royal Society of England, scientists have discovered that the black and white stripes of zebras can help prevent blood-sucking insects. The research team observed zebras and brown horses in Hungary, where there are many blood-sucking insects in the summer. The results showed that brown horses were 10 times more likely to be bitten by insects than zebras.
The next experiment was conducted with volunteers who had their bodies painted in two different color patterns: one side was black and white like a zebra, and the other side was a different color. The results showed that the group with black and white stripes were bitten by insects much less often than the other group.
Explanation from the Researchers
The research team reasoned that the black and white stripes have the ability to scatter light, making it harder for blood-sucking insects to see their targets. This not only protects zebras from insect attacks, but is also similar to the way African and Australian aborigines paint their bodies with stripes to reduce insect attraction and irritation from bites.
Other Theories About Black and White Stripes
Before this theory, there were many other explanations for the function of black and white stripes on zebras. Some thought it was a form of camouflage, helping foals blend in with larger horses; or that stripes help regulate body temperature and make it easier for predators to see zebras.
The Social Benefits of Black and White Stripes
Black and white stripes also have significant social value, helping zebras recognize each other, which is important for visual communication between mothers and their foals. Although many hypotheses have been published in reputable scientific journals, no empirical evidence has yet been fully confirmed as to the exact function of black and white stripes.
Although the new hypothesis from Eotvos Lorand University has not been fully confirmed, it does provide a new perspective on why zebras have striped coats. A better understanding of the function of these stripes will not only help us understand more about these strange animals, but could also open up new research in the future.
