Greenland shark (Somniosus microcephalus) This cartilaginous fish is the world's longest-lived vertebrate. (more) How Old Is the Oldest Living Greenland Shark? Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/animal/How-Old-Is-the-Oldest-Living-Greenland-Shark Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Sep 16, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Scientific data suggest that Greenland sharks (Somniosus microcephalus) may live for more than 500 years and that the oldest known living Greenland shark is about 400 years old. This remarkable longevity—which earns this fish the title of “world’s longest-lived vertebrate”—is likely a result of their exceptionally slow growth and metabolism, which is fostered by the cold, deep-water environment they inhabit. These sharks grow at a glacial pace, taking about 150 years just to reach sexual maturity. This slow growth is matched by their slow swimming speed, which is less than 3 km (about 2 miles) per hour. Living in the ...(100 of 284 words)

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