10 Animals That Can Live for Over 100 Years

6. The Ocean’s Elders: Greenland Sharks

The Greenland shark is a true marvel of the deep, with recent studies suggesting these enigmatic creatures can live for over 400 years. Found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, Greenland sharks are among the longest-living vertebrates on the planet. Their slow growth rate and late maturity, with some sharks not reaching reproductive age until they are over 150 years old, contribute to their extended lifespans. Greenland sharks are top predators in their ecosystem, feeding on a variety of prey including fish, seals, and even scavenged carcasses. Despite their size and power, they are slow-moving and often covered in parasitic copepods, which may impair their vision. However, their keen sense of smell and ability to navigate the dark, icy waters make them formidable hunters. The longevity of Greenland sharks raises intriguing questions about the biological processes that allow them to live so long, offering potential insights into aging and lifespan in other species. Their story is one of mystery and endurance, a testament to the hidden wonders of the ocean.