1. Turritopsis dohrnii (Immortal Jellyfish)
Also known as the "immortal jellyfish," Turritopsis dohrnii is a species of jellyfish that can transform its body into a younger state through a process called transdifferentiation. This unique ability allows it to cheat death and revert back to its polyp stage, effectively making it immune to aging. Despite this remarkable ability, the average lifespan of Turritopsis dohrnii in captivity is around 1-2 years.
2. Ocean quahog (Arctica islandica)
The ocean quahog is a type of clam that can live for hundreds of years, with one specimen estimated to be around 562 years old. This makes it one of the longest-lived non-colonial animals on record. The quahog's longevity is likely due to its slow growth rate and ability to adapt to changing environments.
3. Rockfish (Sebastes spp.)
Some species of rockfish can live for up to 200-400 years, making them one of the longest-lived vertebrates on the planet. These fish have a unique life strategy that involves taking time to mature before reproducing, which allows them to conserve energy and avoid predation.
4. Corals (Anthozoa spp.)
Coral reefs are home to some of the oldest living organisms on Earth, with one species of coral estimated to be around 4,000 years old. Corals have a remarkable ability to regenerate and adapt to changing environments, which has allowed them to thrive for millennia.
5. Koi Fish (Cyprinus carpio)
Some koi fish have been reported to live up to 225 years or more in captivity, making them one of the longest-lived freshwater animals on record. The Japanese have a long history of keeping koi fish as ornamental species, and their unique lifespan has led to the development of specialized breeding programs.
6. Hydroid (Cnidaria spp.)
Some species of hydroids can live for thousands of years, with one estimated to be around 10,000 years old. These colonial animals are thought to have evolved from single-celled organisms and have developed unique strategies for survival in changing environments.
7. Tardigrades (Water Bears)
These tiny micro-animals are known for their ability to survive extreme conditions, including dehydration and radiation. Some species of tardigrades can live up to 10 years or more in captivity, but they are also thought to be capable of surviving for thousands of years in a state of dormancy.
8. Arctic Turbot (Caesesarius arcticus)
The arctic turbot is a species of fish that can live for hundreds of years, with one specimen estimated to be around 140 years old. These fish have a unique life strategy that involves taking time to mature before reproducing, which allows them to conserve energy and avoid predation.
9. Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
While not typically considered "long-lived" in the classical sense, some bald eagles have been known to live for over 40 years in captivity, making them one of the longest-lived birds of prey on record. In the wild, however, their average lifespan is around 20-30 years.
10. Bowhead Whales (Balaena mysticetus)
The bowhead whale is thought to be one of the oldest living species on Earth, with estimates suggesting that some individuals may live for over 200 years. These whales have a unique life strategy that involves taking time to mature before reproducing, which allows them to conserve energy and avoid predation in the harsh Arctic environment.