What mechanism related to differential sunlight absorption might assist in zebra thermoregulation?
Answer
Creation of small air currents just above the skin surface
One proposed, though scientifically debated, hypothesis for the function of zebra stripes involves thermoregulation in the intense African heat. This theory posits that the contrasting colors of the black and white stripes interact differently with solar radiation. The differential absorption of sunlight leads to variations in temperature across the skin surface, which in turn may generate subtle, localized air currents right above the animal's skin. These micro-currents are theorized to contribute to a localized cooling effect on the zebra, helping regulate its body temperature.
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