With an estimated average of 250 years that can reach over 500 years, the Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) is believed to be the longest-living vertebrate on Earth, surpassing even giant tortoises.
A recent study, presented at the Society of Experimental Biology Conference in Prague, sheds new light on the sharks' amazing longevity.
According to the study, the watery top predators' longevity is attributed to unique metabolic adaptations that do not decline significantly with age.
Greenland sharks have an exceptionally slow growth rate of about 0.5 cm per year and can survive in temperatures as low as -1.8 degrees Celsius with minimal movement. Their late maturation (around 150 years), large size (typically 24 feet and 2,220 pounds), and cold Arctic and North Atlantic environment also play a role.
Unlike other animals, the Greenland shark's metabolic rate and enzyme activity do not appear to change significantly with age, indicating metabolic stability across different ages, which contributes to their extraordinary longevity. However, their enzyme activity increases significantly at higher temperatures, potentially accelerating aging and posing a threat from rising global temperatures, particularly in the Arctic.
Greenland sharks are efficient hunters, preying on squids, seals, and other fish, and are considered top predators. Their flesh is considered a delicacy in Iceland and Greenland, despite its high toxicity from trimethylamine oxide. It must be boiled multiple times to make it safe to eat.
Researchers hope insights from studying the sharks' longevity could provide insights into anti-aging mechanisms applicable to humans.
Sources: Mundo em Revista, Independent, Live Science, Business Insider, Mar Sem Fim, Olhar Digital, La Nación, La Vanguardia, El Economista, New York Post, Newsweek, Yahoo News, The Scottish Sun, Super Abril, Fanatik, Media24, Secret China, Weather News Point, Interesting Engineering, Phys.org
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq.
