Secrets of Female Whale Longevity, Fidelity and Menopause Revealed

JAKARTA – Female whales are known to have long lives. It turns out there is a secret behind this phenomenon, namely menopause and loyalty to family.

Recent research involving five whale species reveals the unique evolution behind this. Unlike most other mammals, female whales go through menopause, allowing these animals to live much longer than other female whales of similar size.

The study led by Dr. Sam Ellis of the University of Exeter showed that female whales undergoing menopause can live up to 40 years longer. This allows them to play an important role in the survival of the family, without extending the reproductive period.

Reporting from News.exeter.ac, Friday (15/3/2024), the evolution of menopause in whales is different from humans. Instead of reducing the reproductive period, menopause in whales extends their life span beyond the reproductive period. This allows them to help their children and grandchildren, such as sharing food and knowledge to find food sources.

This research, involving the University of York and the Center for Whale Research, shows interesting similarities between whales and humans in terms of life history.

“It’s fascinating that we share this history of life with a taxonomic group so different from us,” said Professor Darren Croft, from the University of Exeter.

“Our results suggest that menopause in whales and humans evolved convergently, with the goal of increasing total lifespan without lengthening the reproductive period.”

This research, funded by the Leverhulme Trust and the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), provides new insights into the evolution of menopause and living strategies. whale .

(msf)