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Study Reveals Gender Gaps in Lifespan Across Species

10/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A study by the Max Planck Institute analyzes sex-specific lifespan across 1,176 species, finding females live longer in 72% of mammals and males outlive females in 68% of birds.
The heterogametic sex hypothesis links sex chromosomes to longevity disparities.
Mating systems, especially polygamy, raise male mortality through competition for mates.
Lifespan differences persist in zoos, suggesting genetic factors beyond environment.

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Story summary

A study by the Max Planck Institute analyzes sex-specific lifespan across 1,176 species, finding females live longer in 72% of mammals and males outlive females in 68% of birds.
The heterogametic sex hypothesis links sex chromosomes to longevity disparities.
Mating systems, especially polygamy, raise male mortality through competition for mates.
Lifespan differences persist in zoos, suggesting genetic factors beyond environment.