The Unbelievable Lifespan of the Greenland Shark

The Greenland Shark, a species prevalent in the icy waters of the North Atlantic, has an incredibly long lifespan.

According to a study published in the journal 'Science' in 2016, these majestic creatures can live for more than 400 years, with the oldest recorded individual estimated to be around 392 years old.

To put that into perspective, that specific shark was likely swimming in the Earth's oceans when Galileo first pointed his telescope towards the heavens.

Moreover, Greenland Sharks mature late, achieving sexual maturity only by the grand 'old' age of around 150.

This longevity makes the Greenland Shark not just the longest living shark known to science, but indeed, the longest living vertebrate on Earth.

These facts inspire fascination and bring home the wonders of Earth's intricacies..

2 October 2025
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