Naked Mole Rats Exhibit Peaceful Power Transitions in Captivity, Challenging Scientific Assumptions

A recent study published in Science Advances has found that naked mole rats can undergo peaceful transitions of queens, contradicting earlier assumptions of violent successions. Researchers monitored the Amigos colony for six years. As queen Teré's ability to reproduce waned, her daughter Alexandria began to breed without any signs of aggression. Following Alexandria's passing, another daughter, Arwen, assumed reproductive responsibilities in a calm manner. Teré exhibited protective instincts toward Arwen and her offspring. Led by Janelle Ayres from the Salk Institute, this research indicates a higher level of reproductive adaptability in these creatures. The results, highlighted in Scientific American and El País, were only noted in a controlled environment. Naked mole rats thrive in large colonies with defined roles and can endure 18 minutes without oxygen. Since July 2019, the colony expanded from six to 39 individuals.