Startled by Stripes (IMAGE) Brown University Caption When stripes flash beneath the dish, the tadpole swims faster, so long as the stripes are really obvious. If they are faint, but they are paired with another faint stimulus such as touch or sound, the tadpole will be just as alarmed. A new study explains how subtle sensations add up. Credit Torrey Truszkowski Usage Restrictions with credit License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.