Article
Article
Zebra
Article By:
Linzey, Donald W. Wytheville Community College, Wytheville, Virginia.
Last reviewed:June 2021
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1036/1097-8542.754000
- Description
- Reproduction
- Species and distribution
- Related Primary Literature
- Additional Reading
One of three species of striped, horselike mammals belonging to the genus Equus in the family Equidae and found wild in Africa. Zebras are members of the genus Equus. Three extant species of zebras are recognized: the plains zebra (E. quagga), Grevy's zebra (E. grevyi) [see illustration], and the mountain zebra (E. zebra). Zebras are classified in the order Perissodactyla (odd-toed ungulates). Perissodactyls comprise a group of mammals in which the middle toe is functional and the second and fourth digits are vestigial. All equids walk on the tips of their toes (unguligrade locomotion). Zebras stand 1.2–1.5 m (4–5 ft) high at the withers. Adults weigh 106–202 kg (234–445 lb). The dental formula is I 3/3, C 1/1, Pm 3/3, M 3/3 × 2 for a total of 40 teeth. See also: Africa; Mammalia; Perissodactyla
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