Scientists finally solve riddle of why zebras have stripes

Scientists conclude that zebra stripes evolved over time to protect them from unwanted attention of disease-carrying flies.

16:48 02 April 2014

There are several mysteries surrounding the animal kingdom and now scientists have claimed that they have solved one of the most intriguing – why zebras have stripes.

Charles Darwin already debated the topic with fellow 19th century biologist Alfred Russel Wallace saying that evolutionary drivers have lead to the development of the stripes.

Now, a team from the University of California are now saying that zebra’s bold black and white markings evolved over time to protect them from unwanted attention of disease-carrying flies.

Lead author Tim Caro, a professor of wildlife biology, said: “No one knew why zebras have such striking coloration. But solving evolutionary conundrums increases our knowledge of the natural world and may spark greater commitment to conserving it.”

The team have analysed competing theories and considered five different hypotheses including the possibility that the stripes were a form of camouflage or they were used by zebras in moderating body temperature.
However, the team was convinced that the stripes were a defence against eco-parasites after they studied variations in stripping patterns across the seven living species of the group.

“I was amazed by our results,” Caro said. "Again and again, there was greater striping on areas of the body in those parts of the world where there was more annoyance from biting flies.”

“I was delighted to see the results were so strong in one direction.”