Saikawa and his team discovered that hippopotamuses produce a powerful antibiotic called hipposudoric acid in their pigments. Even at lower concentrations than those found on their skin, the high acidity of the pigment can inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. This explains how hippos can remain largely infection-free despite the wounds they inflict on each other with their tusks. The antiseptic powers of hippo sweat may also act as a bug repellent since flies seem to avoid landing on it. However, the exact synthesis of the pigment remains a mystery, and it has a strong odor. Despite their large size, hippos are not big eaters, consuming only around 1 to 1.5 percent of their body weight each day.
Hippo Frequently Asked Questions
Are hippos carnivores?
No, hippos are herbivores and typically consume up to 40 kilograms of grass each day. Although there have been reported instances of cannibalism and scavenging, it is not a common occurrence.
What makes hippos dangerous?
Hippos are naturally aggressive and pose a significant threat to humans. As semi-aquatic mammals, they are responsible for more fatalities in Africa than any other animal. With a weight of up to 3,200 kg, large incisor teeth, and impressive speed, they are a formidable foe.
Why is hippo sweat red?
The reddish-pink hue of hippo sweat results from two highly acidic and unstable compounds: hipposudoric acid (red) and norhipposudoric acid (orange). While these pigments cannot maintain stability on their own, they mix with mucus on the hippo’s skin, leaving a colorful residue.
What do hippos use for sun protection?
The mucus secreted by hippos has multiple functions, including regulating their body temperature and protecting them from the sun’s harmful rays. This thick, adhesive substance acts as a potent sunscreen and antibiotic, shielding hippos from both visible and ultraviolet light.
Additional Information
Related HowStuffWorks Articles
- Hippopotamus
- How the Nile River Works
- How Sweat Works
- How Sunburn and Sun Tans Work
- How the Sun Works
- What is “sunburn”?
- SPF: What’s in a number?
- How Light Works
More Great Links
- AnimalPlanet.com
- National Geographic Blog: Acting Like Another Animal on the Savanna
В
Sources
- Arthur, Charles. “Wallowing in sunscreen sweat is secret of hippos’ silky skin regime.” The Independent. May 27, 2004. (Oct. 6, 2008)http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/wallowing-in-sunscreen-sweat-is- secret-of-hippos-silky-skin-regime-564868.html
- Grossi, Mark. “Hot property: Hippo sweat studied for human use.” Scripps Howard News Service. The San Diego Union-Tribune. Aug. 31, 2005. (Oct. 6, 2008)http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20050831/news_1c31hippo.html
- Harlow, John. “Big sweat as human hippo Brady Barr gets stuck in mud.” The Sunday Times. Jan. 27, 2008. (Oct. 6, 2008)http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/science/article3257296.ece
- “Hippopotamus.” African Wildlife Foundation. (Oct. 6, 2008)http://www.awf.org/content/wildlife/detail/hippopotamus
- “Hippopotamus.” National Geographic. (Oct. 6, 2008)http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/hippopotamus.html
- “Mammals: Hippopotamus.” San Diego Zoo. (Oct. 6, 2008)http://www.sandiegozoo.org/animalbytes/t-hippopotamus.html
- Hughes, Catherine D. “Hippopotamuses.” National Geographic Kids. (Oct. 6, 2008)http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/Animals/CreatureFeature/Hippopotamus/
- Saikawa, Yoko, et al. “The red sweat of the hippopotamus.” Nature. Vol. 429. May 27, 2004.
- “Scientists find missing link between the whale and its closest relative, the hippo.” UC Berkeley. Daily Science News. Jan. 25, 2005. (Oct. 6, 2008)http://www.sciencenewsdaily.org/story-2806.html
В
В
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of sunscreen for a hippo?
A hippo’s skin is very sensitive to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays, which can cause dehydration, sunburn, and even skin cancer. Sunscreen helps protect the hippo’s skin from these dangers and keeps it healthy.
2. How does a hippo make its own sunscreen?
A hippo’s skin secretes a natural sunscreen called “blood sweat,” which is a red, oily substance that acts as a physical barrier between the sun’s rays and the skin. The sunscreen also contains antibacterial properties that help protect the hippo from infections.
3. What is the composition of the hippo’s sunscreen?
The hippo’s sunscreen is made up of two pigments: red and orange. The red pigment is called “hipposudoric acid,” and the orange pigment is called “norhipposudoric acid.” These pigments mix with the hippo’s natural oils and create a protective barrier on the skin.
4. How effective is a hippo’s sunscreen?
A hippo’s natural sunscreen is very effective, as it can protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays for several hours. The sunscreen also has the added benefit of being water-resistant, so it doesn’t wash off easily when the hippo is in the water.
5. Can humans use hippo sunscreen?
Although hippo sunscreen is effective for the hippo, it is not recommended for humans to use. The pigments in the sunscreen can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in humans. It is best to stick with human-made sunscreens that are specifically formulated for our skin.
6. Are there any other animals that make their own sunscreen?
Yes, there are several other animals that make their own sunscreen, including elephants, rhinos, and pigs. These animals all have natural pigments in their skin that help protect them from the sun’s harmful rays.
Leave a Reply