zebras are a unique species of horse, typically found in the grasslands and deserts of Africa. Unlike their equine relatives, zebras have a distinctive coat featuring black and white stripes that run from head to toe. So far, scientists have only partially understood the significance of this unique coloration in zebras. However, many people wonder whether zebras are actually white with black stripes or black with white stripes.
Firstly, the special coloration of zebras plays a significant role in helping them survive in the harsh conditions of Africa. The alternating black and white colors help reduce the amount of solar heat absorbed by their bodies by up to 70%. The arrangement of the stripes on a zebra’s body is also quite unique; it creates individual patterns for each zebra, similar to human fingerprints. For zebras, these stripes, particularly those on the shoulders or neck, help them recognize members of their herd.
Contrary to popular belief, the vibrant colors of zebras may attract predators such as lions or hyenas. However, these black and white stripes actually help zebras confuse these predators. When zebras gather together, scientists believe that the high number of black and white stripes can deceive predators. It creates an optical illusion, making ten zebras standing close together appear as a single massive entity, deterring predators from approaching.
Thus, it is clear that the black and white stripes of zebras are highly effective, aiding their survival in harsh conditions and against predators. But the question remains: are zebras white with black stripes or black with white stripes? Based on mere visual observation, it is challenging to answer this, as the black and white stripes are evenly distributed across their bodies.
To answer this question, we need to delve deeper into the pigment cells beneath their skin. The melanocyte cells play a crucial role in producing fur pigmentation. This is also true for zebras, where these melanocyte cells determine their coloration. By analyzing these pigment cells during the embryonic stage of zebras, scientists have been able to find an answer.
Lisa Smith, a researcher studying large mammals at the Atlanta Zoo, conducted her research on zebras. In her study, Lisa discovered that the black color of zebras is a result of pigment activation by melanocyte cells, while the white color is a result of pigment inhibition. This means that black is the primary color of zebras, and the white stripes are the result of inhibited melanocyte cells that fail to produce black pigment, resulting in the appearance of white stripes.
