Study Challenges Conventional Wisdom: Female Mammals & Birds Outlive Males
A groundbreaking study has revealed intriguing differences in lifespan between male and female mammals and birds, challenging conventional wisdom. The research, the most comprehensive of its kind, sheds light on the complex interplay of factors contributing to sex differences in adult lifespan.
The study found that females, with two X chromosomes, have an evolutionary advantage. Mutations in the X chromosome, which can be harmful to longevity, are less likely to impact females due to the presence of a second X chromosome. This advantage was evident in both mammals and birds.
In the wild, females with childcare responsibilities tended to outlive their male counterparts. This trend was more pronounced in the wild than in zoos, suggesting that environmental factors play a significant role. However, it's important to note that evidence in the wild was less conclusive than in controlled zoo environments.
The study also investigated the impact of mating systems. In non-monogamous mammal species, females lived longer than males, supporting the sexual selection theory. Conversely, among birds, adult males outlived females by 5%.
A notable exception was observed in certain bird species like falcons and Accipiter hawks in zoos, where females lived longer than males, bucking the general trend in birds.
The heterogametic sex hypothesis, which relates to sex chromosomes, was further supported by the study. It highlights the importance of other evolutionary drivers in sex differences in lifespan, such as parental care and mating systems.
The study, the most comprehensive to date, found that female mammals live 12% longer than males. It expands our understanding of the complex factors contributing to sex differences in adult lifespan, challenging simplistic explanations and opening avenues for further research.
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