Larger Brain Means Longer Life

Chimpanzee Image: Michael Elliott / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Scientists have discovered a link between brain size and life span in mammals. It appears that mammals with larger brain to body size ratios tend to live longer. After studying approximately 500 mammal species, it was discovered that some mammals including chimpanzees, gorillas, whales and elephants have larger brains in relation to body size than would be expected. When compared to other mammals with smaller brain to body size ratios such as rodents, bats, felines and marsupials, mammals with larger brains in proportion to body size live longer.

The researchers believe that larger brain size means greater flexibility in behavior and an increased ability to learn and adapt to changing environments. In the case of some mammals, the environment favors genetic variations that tend toward the development of larger brains. For mammals, a larger brain equals a better chance for survival and more opportunities to reproduce.

Learn more about this study:

• Brain Size Associated With Longevity in Mammals Science Daily