Study Challenges Common Notion: Females Don't Always Outlive Males
A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Johanna Staerk, published in Science Advances, sheds light on sex differences in lifespan across various animal species. The research challenges the common notion that females outlive males and reveals a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and evolutionary factors at play.
Analysing over 1,000 species, the study found that in 72% of mammals, females indeed outlive males by an average of 12%. However, in birds, males tend to live longer than females by an average of 5% in 68% of species. This reversal in lifespan trends between mammals and birds highlights the influence of environmental factors such as predators, diseases, and harsh climatic conditions, which can disproportionately affect one sex.
Genetic factors also play a significant role. Mammalian females, with two X chromosomes, are less susceptible to harmful mutations than males, who have one X and a shortened Y chromosome. The 'toxic Y' hypothesis suggests that the Y chromosome itself may carry genetic elements that negatively impact health and ageing in males. Additionally, being a lifelong partner and a good parent may contribute to males having a longer life from an evolutionary perspective. Monogamy in species tends to result in a smaller gap between male and female lifespans due to reduced competition and energy expenditure.
The study underscores the intricate relationship between sex, genetics, environment, and evolution in determining lifespan. It challenges the simplistic view that females universally outlive males and instead highlights the complex interplay of factors at work. These findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of sex differences in longevity across the animal kingdom.
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