Quck answer
Zebras are black with white stripes. This is because their skin is black and their stripes are formed from unpigmented hair. This has been confirmed through genetic studies that show that the default color for zebras is black and the white stripes are a result of genetic mutation. Additionally, if you were to shave a zebra, the skin underneath would be black. Therefore, while the white stripes may be more visually striking, zebras are indeed black with white stripes.
Wild Animals
The Color of Zebras
Grevy’s zebras have narrower stripes and black stripes running down their spines.
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The stripe pattern of zebras is determined by genetics and selective pigmentation, although the exact process is not known. Melanocyte skin cells produce pigments that color the fur, and certain chemical messengers determine which melanocytes deliver their pigment to the zebra. The pattern develops during the embryonic phase. Mathematical models have not been able to accurately simulate the development of the pattern.
So, what color are zebras? While there are conflicting perspectives, Lisa Smith, Curator of Large Mammals at Zoo Atlanta, reports that the coat is “often described as black with white stripes.” This is because the pattern is a result of pigment activation (black) and inhibition (white). Black is the actual color of the fur, and the white patches are simply the areas that lack pigmentation. Most zebras have dark skin beneath their fur.
Although zebras may share similar stripe patterns and appearances, there are distinct differences among the three existing species:
- Burchell’s/plains zebras (Equus burchelli): These are the most populous zebra species, found in northern Kenya. Their broader stripes fade to gray, called shadow striping, as they move down the body. Their legs feature a lot of white as well.
- Grevy’s zebras (Equus greyvi): These zebras have the largest build and are found in northern Kenya. They have narrower stripes with definitive black stripes slicing down the middle of their backs and white bellies.
- Mountain zebras (Equus zebra): Found in southern Angola and Namibia, mountain zebras are the least common of the species. They are distinguished by a square flap of skin on their throats and wide stripes against a cream-colored background.
There was once a subspecies of the plains zebra called the quagga, which had unique coloring that made it look like a cross between a horse and a zebra. The last quagga died in a zoo in 1883, but scientists have retrieved DNA from preserved pelts and are working to revive the subspecies in South Africa.
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Additional Useful Links
- AnimalPlanet.com
- International Museum of the Horse
- San Diego Zoo’s page on zebras
References
- Camazine, Scott. “Patterns in Nature.” Natural History Magazine. June 2003. (July 14, 2008)http://www.naturalhistorymag.com/0603/0603_feature.html
- “Grevy’s Zebra.” Smithsonian National Zoological Park. (July 14, 2008)http://nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/AfricanSavanna/fact-gzebra.cfm
- Groves, Colin P. “Horses, Asses and Zebras.” Ralph Curtis Books. 1974.
- Holland, Jennifer Steinberg. “Zebras: Born to Roam.” National Geographic Magazine. September 2003. (July 11, 2008)http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/0309/feature2/index.html?fs=video.nationalgeographic.com&fs=plasma.nationalgeographic.com
- Murray, James Dickson. “Mathematical Biology.” Springer. 2002. (July 11, 2008)http://books.google.com/books?id=VmCQ28GWqE0C
- “Mammals: Zebra.” San Diego Zoo. (July 11, 2008)http://www.sandiegozoo.org/animalbytes/t-zebra.html
- Smith, Lisa. Personal Correspondence. Conducted July 14, 2008.
- “The Development of Zebra Striping Pattern.” Swarthmore Virtual Library of Developmental Biology. Updated Dec. 22, 1998. (July 11, 2008)http://zygote.swarthmore.edu/ecto10.html
- “Zebra.” International Museum of the Horse. (July 11, 2008)http://www.imh.org/museum/breeds.php?pageid=8&breed=103
FAQ
1. Are zebras black with white stripes or white with black stripes?
Zebras are actually black with white stripes. This is because the skin underneath their fur is black, while the fur itself is white with black stripes. You can tell this by looking at the zebra’s nose, which is black, and its belly, which is completely white.
2. Why are zebras striped?
The exact reason why zebras have stripes is still a bit of a mystery. Some scientists believe that the stripes help to confuse predators, making it harder for them to pick out a single zebra in a group. Other theories suggest that the stripes may help to regulate the zebra’s body temperature or repel insects.
3. How many species of zebra are there?
There are three species of zebra: the plains zebra, the mountain zebra, and the Grevy’s zebra. The plains zebra is the most common and can be found in many different parts of Africa.
4. How do zebras communicate?
Zebras communicate with each other using a variety of sounds, including whinnies, barks, and snorts. They also use body language, such as ear position and tail flicks, to convey different messages.
5. What do zebras eat?
Zebras are herbivores and primarily eat grasses and other vegetation. They have a unique digestive system that allows them to extract as much nutrition as possible from the tough and fibrous plants that make up their diet.
6. Do zebras make good pets?
No, zebras do not make good pets. They are wild animals and require a very specific habitat and diet to thrive. They can also be dangerous and unpredictable, especially if they feel threatened.
7. Are zebras endangered?
While zebras are not currently considered to be endangered, some species, such as the Grevy’s zebra, are classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss and hunting.
8. What is the lifespan of a zebra?
The lifespan of a zebra varies depending on the species and the individual. In general, zebras live for about 20-30 years in the wild.
9. How fast can zebras run?
Zebras are fast runners and can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. This allows them to outrun many predators, such as lions and hyenas.
10. Do zebras have any natural predators?
Yes, zebras have several natural predators, including lions, hyenas, leopards, and wild dogs. However, their stripes can help to confuse these predators and make it harder for them to catch a zebra.
11. Are zebras related to horses?
Yes, zebras are related to horses and belong to the same family, Equidae. However, they are a separate species and cannot interbreed with horses.
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