Why do some species escape senescence? part III

A mixture of perennial seeds Source: Wikipedia

During the previous two parts I have mentioned two common patterns in negligible and negative senescence species that escape senescence: 1. dormancy 2. modular growth Although such species are encountered in the animal as well as in the plant kingdom, traditionally there has been a lack of interest in studying plants in the gerontology field.…… Continue reading Why do some species escape senescence? part III

Why do some species escape senescence? part II

The red sea urchin Strongylocentrotus franciscanus displays modular growth. Source: nos.noaa.gov

During the previous post I mentioned dormancy as one of the strategies some species display to escape senescence. Are there any more common patterns? What do these individuals do differently from us? Can we learn something from them, even apply some of their wisdom to escape senescence too? During the periods when species undergo depressed…… Continue reading Why do some species escape senescence? part II

Why do some species escape senescence? part I

Tardigrades on moss as seen through the electron microscope Source: Science journal

During the past 6 months I took the habit of researching the existing academic literature on species which seem to defy the wear and tear we humans experience as we age. I tried to find common patterns, common development pathways or common environments. I am still not through with reading everything that has been published…… Continue reading Why do some species escape senescence? part I

The best time for being a reader

Source: http://ihi.eprints.org/images/banner.jpg

Almost 20 years ago, I was desperately saving my pocket money – theoretically destined for my school lunch – in order to afford about 1-2 books per month. After a couple of years I discovered local secondhand bookshops and the local county library. Since I was born and later grew up in a medium town,…… Continue reading The best time for being a reader