How Long Do Greenland Sharks Live

March 6, 2023 Alex T. Uncategorized 0

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Greenland Shark Lifespan
  3. Factors Affecting Greenland Shark Lifespan
  4. Greenland Shark Lifespan vs. Other Sharks
  5. Conclusion

Introduction

Greenland sharks are one of the largest species of sharks in the world. They are found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. They are also known as sleeper sharks due to their slow swimming speed and long life span. The average lifespan of a Greenland shark is estimated to be between 200 and 400 years, making them one of the longest-living vertebrates on the planet. In this article, we will explore how long Greenland sharks live and the factors that affect their lifespan.

Greenland Shark Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Greenland shark is estimated to be between 200 and 400 years. This makes them one of the longest-living vertebrates on the planet. The oldest known Greenland shark was estimated to be 392 years old, making it the longest-living vertebrate ever recorded.

The longevity of Greenland sharks is due to their slow growth rate and low metabolic rate. They grow very slowly, reaching sexual maturity at around 150 years old. This slow growth rate allows them to live longer than other species of sharks.

Factors Affecting Greenland Shark Lifespan

The lifespan of Greenland sharks is affected by a number of factors, including their diet, habitat, and age.

Diet

Greenland sharks are opportunistic feeders, meaning they will eat whatever is available to them. Their diet consists mainly of fish, squid, and crustaceans. They also feed on carrion and scavenge for food. A diet high in fat and protein helps to increase their lifespan.

Habitat

Greenland sharks are found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. They prefer deep waters and can be found at depths of up to 2,000 meters. They are also found in shallow waters, but they tend to avoid areas with strong currents.

Age

Greenland sharks grow very slowly and reach sexual maturity at around 150 years old. This slow growth rate allows them to live longer than other species of sharks.

Greenland Shark Lifespan vs. Other Sharks

Greenland sharks have one of the longest lifespans of any shark species. They are estimated to live between 200 and 400 years, making them one of the longest-living vertebrates on the planet. In comparison, the average lifespan of other shark species is much shorter. For example, the great white shark has an average lifespan of 30 years, while the shortfin mako shark has an average lifespan of 20 years.

Conclusion

Greenland sharks are one of the longest-living vertebrates on the planet, with an estimated lifespan of between 200 and 400 years. Their longevity is due to their slow growth rate and low metabolic rate. Their diet, habitat, and age also play a role in determining their lifespan. In comparison to other shark species, Greenland sharks have one of the longest lifespans.

Sources:
1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022098111003179
2. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/g/greenland-shark/