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Scientists have suggested that menopause could be the reason why certain whales have a lifespan that is approximately 40 years longer than other whales.
With the exception of humans, whales are the singular type of mammals that experience menopause.
This naturally occurring biological process is limited to only five types of toothed whales: short-finned pilot whales, false killer whales, killer whales, narwhals, and beluga whales.
According to a study published in the journal Nature, scientists have proposed that menopause may have developed as a way for female whales to assist their families by providing food and childcare when they become grandmothers.
According to scientists, species that are post-menopausal can live longer without competing with their offspring for potential partners.
Dr. Darren Croft, a professor at the University of Exeter and the executive director of the Centre for Whale Research, explained that the development of menopause and a prolonged post-reproductive period would require specific conditions to occur.
Firstly, for a species to qualify, it must have a social system in which female members maintain close proximity with their offspring and their grandchildren.
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Secondly, the female members should have the chance to contribute in ways that can enhance the chances of survival for their family.
“An instance of this is evident in female toothed whales, as they demonstrate altruistic behavior by sharing food and utilizing their expertise to lead the group in locating sustenance during times of scarcity.”
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Female orcas have a lifespan of up to 80 years, while male orcas typically only live until their 40s.
The scientists examined information from scientific sources in order to develop the life cycles of 32 different types of whales.
The team stated that there is no development of “male menopause” in male whales due to the fact that they do not belong to the same social group as their offspring or descendants.
Professor Croft stated that male whales do not have the chance to assist their relatives as they age. Therefore, evolution has favored them to continue reproducing until their death.
However, this also implies that females usually have a longer lifespan than males within their species.
According to the researchers, female killer whales have a longer lifespan, with some living up to 80 years. In contrast, male killer whales generally do not live past 40 years old.
According to them, whales and humans have evolved independently for 90 million years but still have surprisingly similar life patterns.
The research was financially supported by the Leverhulme Trust and the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC).
Killer whale population studies have revealed that the experience of post-reproductive female whales plays a vital role in managing difficult environmental conditions, according to Prof Croft.
According to him, there are common trends in human societies, including hunter-gatherer societies, during periods of drought or social conflict. In these situations, people will often seek guidance and wisdom from the more experienced and knowledgeable elders in their community.
“It is crucial to note the similarities between humans and cetaceans in regards to the significant role of older matriarchs or grandmothers in tooth whales and human societies, respectively.”
Dr. Sam Ellis, the lead author from the University of Exeter, notes that there are over 5,000 mammal species, but only six have been observed to experience menopause.
The question to be answered is: what is the reason and mechanism behind the evolution of menopause?
“Our research offers insight into the intriguing puzzle.”
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