X-Message-Number: 26202
Date: Thu, 19 May 2005 10:34:47 -0400
From: Thomas Donaldson <>
Subject: Now really here.. to Basie

To Basie, once more re evolution:

I have no idea what you mean by "niche area" in your message. In any
sensible definition, the niche area of mice is much larger than that
of elephants. If by "niche area" you mean that the volume of safe
space in which mice can live with no danger, then you're basically
agreeing with what I said while refusing to admit your agreement.

Moreover you still haven't dealt with your mistake in confusing 
levels. Suppose that you DO have a definition of "niche area"
which makes sense, then that doesn't touch the issue of just 
how this niche area results in much shorter lifespans. I pointed
out that inbreeding wasn't automatically negative. I will go on
to point out that most lab animals are very highly inbred, to
the extent that lab mice or rats of the same strain can happily
take tissues from others of their strain with no problem ---
tissues, not just blood. So we just end up with a strain of 
very long-lived animals which are highly inbred. 

You haven't even cited any sources for this idea. So far from
what you've said, I would not retract my opinion. Whoever thought
up the theory on the evolution of lifespan that you have given
deserves a mark of "F" otherwise known as Failure.

            Best wishes and long long life to all,

                Thomas Donaldson

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