Death is part of the genetic programme. Each
generation must make way for the next, and
in most species the conclusion of the reproductive
phase brings about the onset of
senescence. Even the sagacity of the elder
statesmen is of limited value to the species.
200 Chapter 10
Eventually inbuilt failure of one or more
vital systems causes the death of the individual.
This allows the new generations to
develop without competition from the previous
one. Elderly animals often separate from
the social group, and there is weight loss and
wasting, which could be described as a form
of negative growth.