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Greenland Sharks: Century-Old Giants Demand Urgent Conservation

2/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Greenland sharks, the remarkable giants of the North Atlantic and Arctic, can live for centuries—some even reaching an astonishing 500 years. A groundbreaking study led by Julius Nielsen uncovered that one shark was at least 272 years old, thanks to innovative radiocarbon dating of its eye lens proteins. Their slow growth and frigid environment underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these ancient creatures.

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Story summary

Greenland sharks, the remarkable giants of the North Atlantic and Arctic, can live for centuries—some even reaching an astonishing 500 years. A groundbreaking study led by Julius Nielsen uncovered that one shark was at least 272 years old, thanks to innovative radiocarbon dating of its eye lens proteins. Their slow growth and frigid environment underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect these ancient creatures.