The longest lived mammals reside in the icy Arctic, with lifespans reaching an impressive 200 years.
The bowhead whale, scientifically known as Balaena mysticetus, is the longest-living mammal on Earth. These magnificent creatures are a species of baleen whale, known for their unique characteristics and extraordinary lifespan.
Humans, another long-living mammal, are hairless great apes that walk upright, with an average lifespan of 78.4 years in the United States. But when it comes to longevity, the bowhead whale outshines us all.
These whales spend nearly their entire lives in the icy waters of the Arctic and subarctic. They can grow to be massive, reaching up to 18.8 meters (62 feet) in length and weighing as much as 90,710 kilograms (200,000 pounds). Despite their size, they do not possess a dorsal fin, a trait that sets them apart from many other whales.
Bowhead whales are adapted to their icy environment, with a thick layer of blubber for insulation. They use long, comb-like baleen plates to eat, trapping tiny prey such as krill and other zooplankton.
The secret to their longevity may lie in a gene duplication. Research suggests that a gene called CDKN2C, which is linked to halting cell division and preventing programmed cell death, has been duplicated in bowhead whales. This genetic anomaly could be the key to their extreme longevity.
However, this longevity comes with a trade-off. The duplication of the CDKN2C gene appears to have a negative effect on male fertility, influencing sperm production and shrinking the size of their testicles.
In a 1999 study, researchers George T. H. Goetz, John C. George, and their colleagues examined the eye lenses of 48 bowhead whales. Their findings were astonishing: they discovered that four bowhead whales (all males) were older than 100 years, and one individual was estimated to be 211 years old.
A stone harpoon tip discovered embedded in a bowhead whale in 2007 indicated that it was around 115 years old, further emphasising their remarkable lifespan.
The bowhead whale's longevity is a testament to the wonders of nature and the resilience of life in the face of adversity. As we continue to learn more about these majestic creatures, we are reminded of the importance of conservation efforts to protect them and their habitats.
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