Predation affects the evolution of sex-specific longevity.

Tanya M Pennell, Masako Katsuki, C Ruth Archer, Manmohan D Sharma, Kensuke Okada, David J Hosken

Centre for Ecology & Conservation, Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE), University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn, UK.Centre for Ecology & Conservation, Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE), University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn, UK. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

Predation, a major cause of natural selection, is classically thought to target the weak and sick. However, predators can target animals with condition-dependent sexual traits, and therefore, high-quality individuals can also be the focus of predation. Thus, it is not always clear which individuals are the foci of predators or how this affects trait evolution. Here, we tested for evolutionary effects of sex-specific predation on male and female longevity using replicate populations of the broad-horned flour beetle

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Research summary

The paper explores the evolutionary effects of predation on sex-specific longevity in a model organism, which is relevant to understanding factors that influence lifespan and longevity. However, while it contributes to the field of evolutionary biology and may provide insights into longevity, the findings are likely to be incremental rather than transformative, limiting its overall impact.

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