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Surveying Low-Cost Methods to Measure Lifespan and Healthspan in Caenorhabditis elegans

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Published on: May 18, 2022

Predation affects the evolution of sex-specific longevity.

Tanya M Pennell¹, Masako Katsuki², C Ruth Archer³

¹Centre for Ecology & Conservation, Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE), University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn, UK.

Biology Letters

|November 13, 2024

Summary

Predators often target weak individuals, but can also prey on high-quality males. This study shows male-limited predation in flour beetles evolved reduced male longevity and increased female longevity.

Keywords:

experimental evolution individual quality natural selection sexual conflict sexual selection

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Area of Science:

Evolutionary biology
Behavioral ecology
Animal behavior

Background:

Predation is a key driver of natural selection.
Traditionally, predation is believed to target weaker individuals.
However, predators can also target high-quality individuals with condition-dependent sexual traits.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the evolutionary effects of sex-specific predation on longevity.
To determine how predation on males versus females influences trait evolution.
To examine the role of condition-dependent sexual traits in predation targets.

Main Methods:

Used replicate populations of the broad-horned flour beetle (Gnatocerus cornutus).
Implemented male-limited and female-limited predation treatments.
Measured evolutionary changes in male and female longevity.

Main Results:

Male-limited predation led to decreased male longevity and increased female longevity.
Female-limited predation did not significantly affect the longevity of either sex.
Documented costs of reproduction in relation to predation.

Conclusions:

Predation can impact high-quality males, influencing trait evolution.
Negative intersexual genetic correlations mediate the effects of male predation on female longevity.
Sex-specific predation dynamics play a crucial role in shaping longevity evolution.