Cold-water giants appear among the longest-lived vertebrates. They live at least 250 years, and may live beyond five centuries. They reside in frigid northern habitats at depths roughly 180 to 2,200 meters. They increase in size slowly, maturing well after a century, so removals of adults can affect populations for decades. Recent genome analyses investigate the biology driving their long life and cold tolerance. These studies identify clues from the Greenland shark genome. Whole-genome studies provide initial insights while preserving known facts about habitat and growth.
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Species is the longest lived vertebrate
www.science.orgSomniosus microcephalus This large, heavy-set shark grows to an average 8-14 feet long but can get to be 24 feet. It has a short, rounded snout, small eyes, and relatively small dorsal fins. Although it is an apex predator, it is a slow swimmer, and likely ambushes its prey and scavenges for
www.floridamuseum.ufl.eduMysteries surround the elusive Greenland shark, the longest-living vertebrate in the world. Researchers have new insight into the unique fish's genetic makeup.
www.cnn.comScientists estimate the Greenland shark lives at least 250 years. They may live over 500 years.
oceanservice.noaa.govGreenland sharks are some of the most mysterious creatures of the deep, thriving in the cold, dark waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. These elusive sharks prefer the frigid depths, often found at depths ranging from 1,200 to 2,600 meters. Their habitat stretches from the coasts of Greenland and Iceland to the waters surrounding Canada and Norway. You might be surprised to learn that t
planetsharkdivers.comA first-ever analysis of the whole Greenland shark genome gives researchers a couple of clues to their longevity.
www.nationalgeographic.comSomniosus microcephalus live mainly on continental and insular shelves. They occupy intertidal regions in addition to some river mouths and shallow bay areas during the winter months and often move to depths from 180 to 550 meters during warmer months. They have been observed as low as 1200 meters, with one observation at 2200 meters off the coast of Georgia - extending its range both geographically and in terms of depth.
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