Scientists just discovered that Greenland sharks can live for 400 years. It makes them the longest-lived vertebrates known

in #science9 years ago (edited)

  • We tend to think of vertebrates as living about as long as we do, give or take 50 to 100 years. But Greenland sharks don't even reach maturity until 150 years.

  • Scientists used the pulse of carbon-14 produced by nuclear tests in the 1950s to determine the age of Greenland sharks.

  • Of the 28 fish scientists dated, the oldest is estimated to be around 400 years old—possibly even up to 500 years old.

  • The main reason for Greenland shark record longevity is slow metabolism caused by a cold environment (37 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit).

You can read the full article here - There Is a Shark That Can Live for 400 Years

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It's hard to believe, but then we know so little about the lives of some species. More reason to preserve them

Good point. Although extinction of species is natural, people's actions significantly speed up the process.

Thanks @saulius for the SBD and message ! Followed and Upvoted you

Thanks for the SBD! Was that just a gift???

Oh, it's nothing, buddy! I just wanted to encourage you creating and coming with original ideas, even if Steem whales don't notice you sometimes :)

Thank you :)

Truly amazing, @saulius!