The Oldest Known Vertebrate on Earth is Over 500 Years Old

The Greenland shark, a species that quietly roams the depths of the Arctic waters, holds the remarkable title of the longest-living vertebrate on Earth. Known to live for centuries, some of these sharks are believed to be over 500 years old. Columbus hadn’t even discovered the Americas yet when some of these sharks were born! Their mysterious longevity has fascinated scientists for years, leading to many studies on their life span and behavior.

Discovery of a 500-Year-Old Shark

In 2016, scientists made an extraordinary discovery— a Greenland shark estimated to be around 500 years old. This ancient creature was found in the icy waters of the North Atlantic, adding to the growing body of research on the species. The shark’s age was calculated using radiocarbon dating, revealing its incredible longevity. This finding solidified Greenland sharks as the longest-living vertebrates known to science. I have to be honest, this would not be on my list of top beach holiday destinations.

Unraveling the Mystery of Longevity

The secret to the Greenland shark’s long life lies in its slow metabolism. These sharks grow at an exceptionally slow rate of about one centimeter per year. Their sluggish lifestyle, combined with the cold waters they inhabit, likely contributes to their extended lifespan. The Greenland shark’s ability to live for centuries remains one of nature’s great mysteries, with scientists still exploring the full extent of their longevity.

How Scientists Calculate Their Age

Determining the age of a Greenland shark is no easy task. Unlike other fish, Greenland sharks don’t have bones or hard tissues that can be used to measure age. Instead, scientists use radiocarbon dating on the shark’s eye lenses, which contain proteins that remain unchanged throughout its life. This method has allowed researchers to estimate the ages of these ancient sharks with impressive accuracy.

Caught in Belize: A Rare Sighting

In 2022, researchers unexpectedly caught a Greenland shark off the coast of Belize, far from its usual Arctic habitat. This rare sighting surprised scientists, as these sharks typically roam deep, cold waters. The catch in Belize underscored how much we still have to learn about the full range of Greenland shark movements. It also raised new questions about the species’ ability to adapt to warmer environments. Honestly, studying sharks in Belize with beaches that look like that sounds like an ideal research opportunity I wouldn’t mind taking on!

A Shark Built for the Cold

Greenland sharks thrive in the freezing waters of the Arctic and North Atlantic, perfectly adapted to these harsh conditions. A special antifreeze-like substance in their tissues allows them to survive in temperatures as low as 28°F. This unique adaptation plays a vital role in their longevity, as the cold slows down their metabolism and minimizes wear and tear on their bodies. Over time, this environment becomes essential for extending their long lives.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Greenland sharks are known for their incredibly slow pace. They swim at an average speed of less than one mile per hour, which is slow even by shark standards. This slow movement is another factor in their long lifespan, as it conserves energy and reduces the need for frequent feeding. The shark’s laid-back lifestyle seems to be a recipe for longevity. I think we could all take a page out of this shark’s book.

The Oldest Vertebrate on Earth

Greenland sharks hold the record as the longest-living vertebrates, outliving even the giant tortoises and bowhead whales. Their ability to live for up to 500 years sets them apart from other species, both on land and in the ocean. As scientists continue to study these remarkable animals, they hope to unlock the biological secrets behind their extreme longevity.

Predators of the Deep

Though they live long lives, Greenland sharks are not immune to the challenges of life in the deep ocean. They are slow-moving predators, feeding on fish, seals, and other marine animals. Interestingly, these sharks are often found with prey in their stomachs that seem too fast for them to catch. This has led scientists to believe that Greenland sharks might scavenge for food or ambush their prey.

Life in the Arctic Depths

The harsh, icy waters of the Arctic are where Greenland sharks thrive. They typically live at depths of 1,200 to 7,200 feet, where temperatures are consistently cold. This deep-sea habitat helps protect them from predators and human activity, allowing them to live relatively undisturbed. Their deep-dwelling nature also means that much about their behavior and biology remains unknown.

Surviving for Centuries

One of the most fascinating aspects of Greenland sharks is their ability to survive for centuries. These sharks can outlive multiple human generations, with some living through significant historical events. For example, a 400-year-old shark alive today would have been swimming the oceans during the time of the Pilgrims’ arrival at Plymouth Rock. Their incredible age provides a living link to centuries of natural history.

Conservation Concerns

Greenland sharks, despite their long lives, face growing threats from human activities. Fishing nets often trap these sharks as bycatch, putting their survival at risk. In addition, rising ocean temperatures from climate change may disrupt the cold-water habitats they rely on. To safeguard these ancient creatures, scientists are actively studying their population numbers and exploring ways to protect them for future generations.

Conclusion

The Greenland shark is a true marvel of the animal kingdom, with its ability to live for centuries in the deep, cold waters of the Arctic. Their unique adaptations, slow lifestyle, and remarkable longevity make them one of the most intriguing creatures on Earth. As we continue to study these ancient sharks, we gain valuable insights into the mysteries of aging and survival in the ocean depths. Would you agree to a potentially blind life spent in freezing waters to live that long?