The Unusual Lifespan of Greenland Sharks

The Greenland shark, also known as the gurry shark or the grey shark, is one of the most intriguing creatures on Earth.

This mysterious beast stands out due to its exceptional lifespan.

According to scientific studies, these incredibly hardy creatures have the longest known lifespan of all vertebrate species, estimated to be as long as 400 years old.

Interestingly, they grow at just 1 cm per year, and only become adults at the age of 150.

Their long lifespan is likely connected to their slow growth and maturation rate.

This also means that some Greenland sharks swimming in our ocean today were born before Shakespeare was writing his most famous plays.

Furthermore, they can live in incredibly harsh environments, enduring the frigid Arctic and North Atlantic waters where few other creatures can survive.

This fascinating intersection between extreme longevity and harsh habitat makes the Greenland shark a unique and fascinating marine creature..

17 November 2025
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