What Is the Oldest Fish in the World
The oldest known fish is the Greenland shark, a large deep-water species that can live for centuries. Researchers estimate some individuals may be over 400 years old, making them the longest-lived vertebrates on Earth.
How Scientists Age Greenland Sharks
Scientists use eye lens radiocarbon dating to estimate Greenland shark ages. Because these sharks grow very slowly and mature late, their extreme longevity helps them survive in cold, deep ocean environments.
Where Long-Lived Fish Live
Greenland sharks inhabit the North Atlantic and Arctic oceans, often at depths above 200 meters. Their slow metabolism and cold habitat are linked to their remarkable lifespan.
For more details on shark longevity research, see the study at Science Magazine.
