A team of Japanese scientists has won global recognition with a humorous yet thought-provoking award: the Ig Nobel Prize in Biology. Their unusual experiment tested whether painting cows with zebra-like stripes could protect them from pesky biting flies.
The Ig Nobel Prizes, created in 1991 by a U.S. science journal, are a parody of the Nobel Prizes. They honor research that first makes people laugh, but then makes them think. This year marks the 19th consecutive year that Japan has claimed at least one of the quirky awards.
Stripes for Stress-Free Cattle
The research team, led by Kojima Tomoki of the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, was inspired by earlier studies suggesting zebra stripes help deter flies. Wondering if cows might benefit too, the group conducted field experiments with Japanese Black cattle.
The results were striking:
- Cows painted with black-and-white stripes attracted less than half as many biting flies as unpainted cows.
- Striped cows showed fewer stress behaviors, such as tail flicking, head shaking, or leg stomping.
The findings suggest that striping could ease the daily discomfort of cattle and provide a potential alternative to pesticides, which are widely used to protect livestock from insect bites.
Beyond the Laughs
While the study might sound amusing, it carries serious implications. Fly bites can cause infections and stress in cattle, impacting their health and productivity. Reducing pesticide use also helps combat environmental pesticide resistance.
However, there are practical challenges. The paint used in the experiment faded within days, meaning a longer-lasting solution would need to be developed before the method could be adopted widely.
Kojima explained that the project began after a cattle farmer approached him for advice about insect problems. Inspired by a TV program on zebra stripes, he saw a creative opportunity. Accepting the Ig Nobel, he said:
“We are grateful to our colleagues, friends, and families. This award motivates us to continue trying.”
Japan’s Winning Streak
This win adds to Japan’s impressive record at the Ig Nobels, with at least one prize every year for the past 19 years. In total, 10 projects were recognized globally this year, ranging from studies on how narcissists react when told they are intelligent to an investigation of what type of pizza lizards prefer.
More Than Just a Joke
The striped cow study is a perfect example of the Ig Nobel spirit: science that is playful, surprising, and ultimately useful. By blending creativity with practical problem-solving, the Japanese team has opened doors to new ways of thinking about animal welfare and sustainable farming.
Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20250919_07/
