Zebras of all stripes repel biting flies at close range

Nature·Nov 3

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Researchers have found that zebra stripes may repel biting flies, with an experiment involving painted cows suggesting that the stripes can deter flies. The exact reason for this phenomenon is still being studied, with scientists reexamining the theory that zebra stripes evolved to repel insects. The discovery has sparked discussion about potential applications, including possibly using similar stripes to protect other animals from flies.

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Scientists painted black cows with white stripes to test whether zebra markings deter biting flies — and the painted cows drew 50 per cent fewer flies, adding weight to the theory that zebras evolved their colouring not for camouflage or heat, but as a living insec

Space Daily·Jul 10

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Zebras of all stripes repel biting flies at close range

Full coverage

Scientists painted black cows with white stripes to test whether zebra markings deter biting flies — and the painted cows drew 50 per cent fewer flies, adding weight to the theory that zebras evolved their colouring not for camouflage or heat, but as a living insec

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