Greenland sharks can live for hundreds of years, but scientists have never understood why. Now, researchers may have finally discovered the secret to the animals' startling longevity: their never-changing metabolism. The surprising finding goes against scientists' previous assumptions and could have major implications for how these animals adapt to climate change.
Greenland sharks (Somniosus microcephalus) have an average lifespan of at least 250 years but can potentially reach over 500 years old, likely making them the longest-living vertebrates in the world.
