"Whale Menopause: A Key to Longevity Revealed"

Scientists have found that menopause in whales, like in humans, may contribute to longer lifespans, particularly in species with a social structure where females can help their offspring and grand-offspring. The study, published in Nature, suggests that menopause allows female whales to survive longer and support their families by sharing food and knowledge. This phenomenon is observed in only five species of toothed whales, and it is believed to have evolved to prevent competition for mates with younger females. The findings highlight the parallel between human and whale societies and shed light on the evolution of menopause in mammals.