As of 2025, the four longest-living animals on Earth are:
- Immortal Jellyfish (Turritopsis dohrnii): This remarkable species possesses the unique ability to revert its cells to a younger state through a process called transdifferentiation, effectively rendering it biologically immortal. NDTV India+1Time+1
- Ocean Quahog Clam (Arctica islandica): These deep-sea clams can live for more than 500 years. The oldest known specimen, named Ming, was determined to be 507 years old when it was discovered. Krishi Talk
- Greenland Shark (Somniosus microcephalus): Residing in the cold waters of the Arctic and North Atlantic oceans, these sharks have lifespans estimated to exceed 400 years, making them the longest-lived vertebrates known. DNA India
- Bowhead Whale (Balaena mysticetus): Native to Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, bowhead whales are known to live over 200 years, with some individuals reaching ages beyond 211. Their longevity is attributed to factors such as a slow metabolism and efficient DNA repair mechanisms. DNA India+4The Sun+4Time+4
These extraordinary lifespans highlight the diverse and remarkable adaptations found in the animal kingdom.
Absolutely — here are a few more incredibly long-lived animals to add to your list, ranked roughly by known or estimated lifespan:
🐢 Galápagos Tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra)
- Lifespan: Over 150 years (some reach 175+)
- These gentle giants are among the longest-living land animals. One famous tortoise, Harriet, lived to be about 175 years old. Their slow metabolism and protected habitat contribute to their longevity.
🐠 Rougheye Rockfish (Sebastes aleutianus)
- Lifespan: Up to 205 years
- Found in the Pacific Ocean, this deep-dwelling fish is known for its incredibly slow aging process. It doesn’t even start to reproduce until it’s around 20 years old!
🐢 Aldabra Giant Tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea)
- Lifespan: Over 150 years
- One named Adwaita was said to have lived to around 255 years, though this is debated. Like their Galápagos cousins, their long lives are helped by minimal predators and a calm lifestyle.
🐊 Red Sea Urchin (Mesocentrotus franciscanus)
- Lifespan: 100–200 years
- Found in the Pacific Northwest, they grow slowly and don’t show typical signs of aging, making them a subject of scientific interest in aging studies.
🦉 Honorable Mentions:
- Koi Fish (Cyprinus rubrofuscus) – Can live over 200 years; one famous koi named Hanako allegedly lived to be 226.
- Tuataras (Reptile from New Zealand) – Can live over 100 years; the oldest recorded is around 120.
- Macaws & Elephants – Not in the 100s range, but both are known for impressively long lifespans (macaws can hit 80+, elephants around 70).
Want me to rank them by lifespan or create a visual list or infographic?
