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Ancient Swimmer: Greenland Shark Could Be Over 400 Years Old

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Neha

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2 min read

21 Nov, 2024

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A Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) alive today might have been swimming the oceans for more than 400 years, dating back to the 1600s. This species holds the title of the longest-living vertebrate, surpassing the bowhead whale, which has a lifespan of around 211 years.


Despite its incredible longevity, the Greenland shark’s remarkable lifespan was only recently confirmed through innovative scientific methods.

Unlike other sharks, Greenland sharks lack hard tissues with growth rings, making age estimation difficult.


A breakthrough came when Danish scientists applied radiocarbon dating techniques—originally used on human eye lenses—to study the sharks. By measuring carbon-14 levels in the sharks' eye tissue, researchers determined that some individuals are centuries old.


Secrets of Longevity

The exact reasons for the Greenland shark's extraordinary lifespan remain unclear. However, factors such as the frigid Arctic waters (-1.6°C or 29°F) and the species' slow metabolism are thought to play key roles. With an average swimming speed of 0.3 meters per second, these "sleeper sharks" conserve energy, aiding their longevity.


The sharks grow at a rate of about 1 cm per year and can reach up to 24 feet (7.3 meters) in length, weighing over 2,645 pounds (1,200 kg). They also mature late, beginning to reproduce at around 150 years of age. Despite their massive size, many Greenland sharks have copepods attached to their eyes, potentially affecting their vision.



Diet and Behavior

As apex predators, Greenland sharks hunt seals and fish but also scavenge carcasses, including polar bears and reindeer. Their scavenging behavior reduces their need to chase prey, fitting their slow lifestyle.


Rare Human Interactions

Living in deep, cold waters, Greenland sharks are rarely encountered by humans. They are occasionally caught in fishing nets but pose no recorded threat to people.


Future Conservation

While not immediately at risk of extinction, Greenland sharks are considered rare. Conservationists stress the need for further study to understand their population and ensure their protection in the wild.


ALSO READ | Newly Discovered Glowing Sea Slug Illuminates Depths of Ocean

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