![]() They have black stripes down their spines and white underbellies. Grevy’s zebras are the largest of the zebra family, and their stripes are narrower. ![]() SpeciesĪlthough all zebras share the striped pattern and generally look the same, there are distinct differences between the three species that exist. The idea of white stripes on black is further supported by the fact that most zebras have dark-colored skin beneath all their black and white fur. This means that black is the actual fur color, and the white stripes are simply areas that lack any pigmentation. But many zoologists describe the zebra’s color pattern as ‘black with white stripes’ This makes the most sense, because the color pattern results from the process of pigment activation and inhibition―activation results in black, and inhibition results in white (lack of pigment). There are many conflicting perspectives related to the black on white, white on black question. The pattern of each zebra’s coloring is determined during the embryonic phase, before the zebra is born. The pigments that color the fur are produced by melanocyte skin cells, and specific chemical messengers are responsible for regulating, which melanocytes give pigment to the zebra’s skin. The striping pattern has something to do with the effect of striping pigmentation. Okay, so now that we know how useful the stripes are to zebras, how can you tell whether they are white stripes on black, or black stripes on white? Genetics are the answer. A group of a dozen zebras might be too intimidating for a single lion to take on by himself. Since they travel in herds, experts believe that the huge sea of stripes confuse predators by looking like an optical illusion, blending all the animals’ figures into one undulating, striped blob. But in the jungle, a zebra’s stripes are actually good camouflage to keep it hidden from its primary predators, which are hyenas and lions. People who wear zebra-print outfits on a crowded street are easy to spot, so you might think that a zebra’s stripes make it easy prey. Zebras travel in groups, often migrating up to 300 miles or more to graze. The stripes on its withers (shoulders) contain the most specific markings to an individual zebra, and each animal is able to tell the others apart. The arrangement of its stripes also is mysterious, because each zebra has a totally uniquely designed coat. ![]() The stripes deflect up to 70% of the heat that hits the zebra’s body during the day. The genetic mystery of the stripes is unique, but the color pattern actually works quite well for the zebra in its native environment. Zoologists aren’t really sure why the zebra has a striped pattern on its coat. ![]()
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