Camouflage:
* Blending in: The stripes help tigers blend in with the dappled sunlight and shadows in their natural habitats, like grasslands and forests. This makes them harder for prey to spot, allowing them to stalk closer for a successful ambush.
* Disrupting their outline: The stripes break up the tiger's outline, making it harder for prey to recognize them as a threat. This further aids in their hunting success.
Communication:
* Individual identification: Each tiger has a unique stripe pattern, like a fingerprint. This allows them to recognize each other and differentiate between individuals within their territory.
Other benefits:
* Temperature regulation: The stripes can also help regulate their body temperature. The dark stripes absorb heat, while the lighter stripes reflect it, helping them stay cool in the hot sun.
However, it's important to note that the stripes are not the only factor contributing to a tiger's survival:
* Their powerful muscles and sharp claws are crucial for hunting and defending themselves.
* Their keen senses of smell, hearing, and sight enable them to detect prey and navigate their environment.
In conclusion, the stripes are a crucial adaptation that allows tigers to camouflage themselves, communicate, and regulate their body temperature, contributing significantly to their survival.