Zebrafish are a type of freshwater fish that are native to the Indian subcontinent. They are also a popular aquarium fish, and have been used in scientific research for decades. In recent years, zebrafish have become increasingly important in the study of human diseases, as they share many of the same genes and developmental processes as humans.

One of the most interesting features of zebrafish is their stripes. These stripes are formed by a pigment called melanin, and they are thought to play a role in camouflage and courtship. In 2014, a team of researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered the genetic basis for zebrafish stripes.

The researchers used a technique called genetic mapping to identify a gene called "striped". When this gene is mutated, zebrafish lose their stripes. The researchers then studied the expression of the striped gene during zebrafish development, and found that it is expressed in the cells that produce melanin.

The discovery of the striped gene has helped scientists to understand the genetic basis of zebrafish stripes, and it may also provide insights into the development of other types of animal patterns. In addition, zebrafish stripes may be a useful model for studying human skin diseases, such as vitiligo, which is characterized by the loss of pigment in the skin.

How mutant zebrafish helped unlock the secret of their stripes

- Zebrafish stripes are formed by a pigment called melanin, and they are thought to play a role in camouflage and courtship.

- In 2014, a team of researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered the genetic basis for zebrafish stripes using a technique called genetic mapping.

- They identified a gene called "striped". When this gene is mutated, zebrafish lose their stripes.

- The researchers then studied the expression of the striped gene during zebrafish development, and found that it is expressed in the cells that produce melanin.

- The discovery of the striped gene has helped scientists understand the genetic basis of zebrafish stripes, and may also provide insights into the development of other types of animal patterns.

- Zebrafish stripes may also be a useful model for studying human skin diseases, such as vitiligo, which is characterized by the loss of pigment in the skin.