IN FOCUS | No two alike
From deterring flies to regulating heat, there are several theories when it comes to the evolutionary purpose of a zebra’s stripes. But one thing is certain – these monochrome markings can help researchers with identification. Each species (the Burchell’s, a subspecies of the plains zebra, is pictured here) has stripes that differ in pattern, orientation and thickness. But it doesn’t stop there – it’s even possible to tell apart individuals, as their black-and-white lines are as unique as fingerprints… or barcodes.