How to Calculate LRE

LRE, or Lifetime Reproductive Effort, is the estimated maximum reproductive output a female can conceive during her lifetime. The number is used to interpret the potential for evolution and survival of the human species and other species. For example, if a species similar to human beings existed on Earth with an LRE higher than that of a human female, then it would be possible for that species to overpopulate and evolve faster than human beings, which might knock the human species out of contention for survival on Earth. In its simplest form, the equation to find LRE is a fairly easy calculation.

Instructions

    • 1

      Use a chart to find the average life expectancy of an area.

    • 2

      Search for a chart that provides an average body mass for first-time birth females. If no chart is available, ask a hospital if they would be willing to provide some data.

    • 3

      Plug the average life expectancy and the average body mass for first-time birth females into the equation LRE = (R / m^a) * E, where R is the adult female's age, m^a is the average body mass for first-time birth females, and E is the average adult female's lifespan. So, if a 32-year-old female in the United States has a body mass of 66 kg, and the average life expectancy of adults in the United States is 78.1, then her LRE = (32/66) x 78.1 = approximately 38. So, this woman might be able to reproduce another 38 times in her lifetime.

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