Study finds longevity reasons behind cats outliving dogs
Scientists at the University of Bath, England, have discovered biological factors that may explain why cats live longer than dogs. Their research, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that a larger brain and a more complex immune system are the key factors contributing to the longevity of felines, as well as other mammals.
The team, led by Benjamin Padilla-Morales, analyzed evolutionary differences between 46 mammal species. They found that a larger brain might provide potential behavioral advantages affecting a species' lifespan. Furthermore, it was revealed that species with longer lifespans have a higher number of genes associated with immune defense. This biological capacity appears crucial for extending a species' life.
While dogs typically live for about 12 years, cats can survive up to 17 years due to these biological differences. other species with significant brain sizes, such as dolphins and whales, have lifespans ranging from 39 to 100 years. However, exceptions exist. For instance, the naked mole-rat, despite its small brain size, can live up to 20 years. Another exception is bats, which have a lifespan beyond what their brain size would suggest, thanks to a high number of genes linked to a robust immune system, allowing them to better combat pathogens.
The study found that not only brain size but also genomic adaptations related to immune resilience evolved over time to promote longer lives in mammals. The researchers plan to continue exploring these mechanisms, possibly leading to future applications that may influence the lifespan of different species, including humans.
In a separate study, the world's longest-living animal was identified as the Greenland shark, which can live between 250 and 500 years. This species lives in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic and grows very slowly, contributing to its prolonged life. The combination of its cold environment, varied diet, and slow-paced lifestyle makes the Greenland shark a unique survivor, important for marine biology and aging vertebrate studies. However, the shark faces significant threats such as accidental fishing and climate change, making its conservation essential to preserve both the species and marine ecosystems.
These findings shed light on the factors contributing to an extended lifespan in various animals, with implications for future studies on longevity, adaptation, and conservation.
- Amidst their research into longevity factors, the team led by Benjamin Padilla-Morales explored connections between health-and-wellness, not just in mammals, but across various species, such as environmental-science focus areas like dolphins and whales.
- In the realm of science and medical-conditions, the team's findings propose that the Greenland shark, with its exceptional lifespan, offers valuable insights for the health of not only the shark population but also the broader marine ecosystem and the understanding of aging vertebrates.
