Could the Zebra’s Stripes Make the Wind Blow?

Function

A great number of zebras live in the dried grasslands of Africa. They are covered in a pattern of black and white stripes that makes their bodies appear slightly larger and allows them to blend in to the surrounding grass, concealing them from the eyes of predators. Every zebra has a unique pattern of stripes, which allows zebras to recognize one another. However, these stripes also have another, more surprising function: they cause wind to blow. The white stripes do not absorb much heat, but the black stripes do. This creates a temperature differential on the surface of their bodies, causing a light breeze to blow by convection. This breeze helps to maintain a comfortable temperature around a zebra’s body.

Functional Classification

Transfer/Dispose/Circulate:
Convection
Defense/Stability:
Temperature control

Environmental Solution Classification

Related Literature

Mammal Society. Mammal Review. 32:237-244.

Technical Application

Products and Services

Type of Business

Proposals of Applied Technology

The ability to mimic the temperature differentials on zebras’ bodies around buildings, homes, or on the ground could help maintain comfortable temperatures without expending electricity.

Proposals of Applied Industry

Related Life Style