5 Animals can live far longer than humans
When we think about long life, humans often come to mind, especially with ever-advancing medical progress pushing life expectancy further. But the animal world also has its own champions of a long lifespan, and some of them make our lifespans look short by comparison.
These creatures are found everywhere, from the deepest oceans to remote islands, and they live quietly for centuries, outlasting generations of humans without anyone even noticing.
But the question remains, what makes these animals so different?
Some have these exceptionally long lifespans due to their slow metabolisms, others due to unique genetic traits or extreme environmental conditions. While humans may strive for longevity through diet, medicine, and exercise, nature has already achieved the art of aging gracefully, and that too in unexpected corners of the animal kingdom.
Many of these animals show little to no signs of aging, and continue to survive well even in extreme old age. Here are some of the
longest living animals
that outlive human beings
Rougheye rockfish
The rougheye rockfish, which is native to the North Pacific, is one of the longest-living fish species on Earth. It can live up to 205 years, according to research by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This deep-sea fish lives in cold, oxygen-rich waters, which help slow its metabolism and aging process. Its longevity is a result of living in stable, low-predator environments. Despite being relatively unknown, this pinkish fish is a living reminder that the ocean still holds ancient secrets.
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Bowhead whale
The bowhead whale is a true Arctic legend, not just for its massive size, but for its exceptional lifespan of over 200 years. One individual was even discovered with a harpoon embedded in its body from the 1800s. According to studies by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, bowheads age incredibly slowly and have unique DNA repair capabilities. These whales live in icy waters, which is a possible reason for their long lives by lowering stress and cellular damage.
They are among the longest-living mammals on Earth.
Scarlet koi fish
Koi fish are often seen in ornamental ponds, but some varieties, especially scarlet koi, are famous for their age-defying lives. While most koi live 25–35 years, a legendary scarlet koi named Hanako reportedly lived 226 years, as confirmed by scale testing at a Japanese university. Though this is exceptional, it shows koi can live far longer than expected under ideal conditions.
Their slow metabolism, stress-free environment, and minimal predators all contribute to their long lifespans in captivity.
Aldabra giant tortoise
The Aldabra giant tortoise, native to the Seychelles, is famous for its long, slow life. These tortoises can live over 150 years, with some reports of individuals reaching 200. One tortoise named Adwaita was believed to have lived over 250 years in an Indian zoo. Their slow metabolism, herbivorous diet, and relaxed lifestyle allow them to age at a glacial pace.
They also have few natural predators, especially in controlled environments, helping them enjoy incredibly long lives.
Escarpia laminata
This deep-sea tubeworm may not look quite beautiful, but it's one of the oldest living creatures ever recorded. Escarpia laminata, found near hydrothermal vents in the Gulf of Mexico, can live for over 300 years. According to a 2017 study published in Nature, some specimens were estimated to be more than 300 years old, this is because of their low-energy lifestyle and stable habitat. Their bodies grow extremely slowly, and they reproduce late, making their long lifespan an adaptation to deep-sea life.
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