The Oldest Known Vertebrate is a Greenland shark, scientifically named Somniosus microcephalus.
These sharks have lifespans estimated at over 500 years.
They inhabit cold Arctic waters, thriving in some of the harshest marine conditions.
The longevity of this species is due to slow growth rates and a slow metabolism.
Greenland sharks grow at a rate of about 1 cm per year in their early years.
Their age is determined through radiocarbon dating and lens analysis.
These ancient creatures provide valuable insight into the evolution and adaptation of marine life.