Greenland Shark: The Longevity Champion of the Abyss

The Greenland shark, known for its remarkable longevity, thrives in the frigid depths of the Arctic Ocean, where temperatures range from -1.8°C to 7.5°C. John Steffensen, a marine biology professor at the University of Copenhagen, suggests that the shark's ability to endure such low temperatures contributes significantly to its lifespan. Living in the deep, dark ocean, these sharks inhabit areas that are challenging for humans to explore, allowing them to evade threats and potentially live longer lives. Research into the Greenland shark's physiology reveals that it has an exceptionally slow metabolism. David McKenzie, director of research at the French National Centre for Scientific Research, notes that these sharks have a resting heart rate of just 4 to 6 beats per minute. This slow heart rate, combined with the cold environment, allows the Greenland shark to live for centuries, with estimates suggesting they can reach ages of at least 300 years. However, Holly Shiels, a professor at the University of Manchester, cautions that the cold and slow metabolism alone cannot fully explain the shark's extraordinary lifespan. She points out that other species in similar Arctic waters, with comparable heart rates, have much shorter lifespans, ranging from 20 to 40 years. This indicates that additional factors may be at play in the Greenland shark's unique longevity. As scientists continue to study this enigmatic species, the Greenland shark remains a fascinating subject for understanding the mysteries of life in extreme environments and the biological mechanisms behind aging.