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UPSC Prelims 1984 · Environment · Species Watch
Arrange the following in descending order of their life spans: A. Elephant B. Horse C. Tiger D. Wolf
- (a) A, B, C, D
- (b) A, C, B, D
- (c) C, A, B, D
- (d) D, A, B, C
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: (a) A, B, C, D
Elephant (~60–70 years) > horse (~25–30) > tiger (~15–20) > wolf (~10–15).
The idea
As a rule, a larger mammal lives longer: its body runs more slowly, it matures late and breeds slowly. Among animals of similar size, plant-eaters often outlive hunters, whose life is harder.
Elephant: about 60–70 years → Horse: about 25–30 years → Tiger: about 15–20 years → Wolf: about 10–15 years
Why the others are wrong
(b) Puts the tiger above the horse — tigers live about 15–20 years, horses 25–30.
(c) Puts the tiger first.
(d) Puts the wolf first.
The trap
Big predators feel long-lived. Horses usually live longer.
Also know
Some of the longest-lived animals are not mammals: giant tortoises pass 150 years, and the Greenland shark is thought to live for centuries.
🔒 Elephant ~65 · horse ~28 · tiger ~15–20 · wolf ~12.