512 Year Old Greenland Shark – Oldest Living Shark

The Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) is a remarkable species, known as the oldest living vertebrate on Earth. One of these sharks was estimated to be around 512 years old, making it the oldest shark ever recorded. Greenland sharks inhabit the deep, cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. Their slow growth rate, approximately 1 centimeter per year, contributes to their long lifespan, which scientists estimate can exceed 400 years on average.

These sharks are apex predators, feeding on a variety of prey, including fish, seals, and even carrion. Due to their slow metabolism and low reproductive rate, they are considered vulnerable to overfishing and environmental changes. The study of Greenland sharks provides valuable insights into aging and longevity, offering a unique perspective on the life history of these ancient creatures that have roamed the oceans for centuries.
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