I heard that smaller creatures die sooner because their hearts beat faster.
2007-08-26 13:53:47 · 5 answers · asked by The Doctor 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
This is an interesting question. It has been more or less established that nearly all mammals have a maximum life expectancy of around one billion heart beats. However, the average human lives to about 1.8-2.0 Billion heart beats, so we are definitely privileged, in the biology realm!
2007-08-26 14:39:24 · answer #1 · answered by Sciencenut 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes. The formula Heartbeat rate X Life time = constant can be used for estimations in many animals. The are some exceptions as the human specie.
The shrew heart would beat about the same times as the Elephant heart.
2007-08-26 21:48:46 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is true though not scientifically tested or proved. For one the design of the experiment is impossible.
But even esoteric Yoga from India (Asia) and other texts suggest a slower heart beat is better in the long run and thus prolongs life. Cats, dogs, rabbits and such have faster heart beats and half shorter life spans. Tortoises are supposed to have slow heart beats and don't they live for centuries?
After my heart attack drugs ( I think beta blockers) slow down the heart beat there by making it rest more between beats (and I hope I live long).
2007-08-27 05:42:19 · answer #3 · answered by straightener 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Generally larger animals have slower heart rates than smaller ones. This also varies based how active a particular species is. I don't believe there is any data out there that suggests, on a long term basis, slower heart rates=earlier death. In fact if heart rates are sustained at higher rates you are more likely to develop morbidities such as heart failure and sudden death.
2007-08-26 21:09:08 · answer #4 · answered by fostec1 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
YES!!
Death will usually occurr after the heart rate drops to zero.
2007-08-26 21:00:15 · answer #5 · answered by goblin 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋