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What Land Animal Lives The Longest?

August 26, 2023
written by Sidra Batool

The land animal that lives the longest is the Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa). These tortoises can live for over 190 years, and the oldest known individual, Jonathan, is believed to be 190 years old. Jonathan lives on the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean.

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Seychelles giant tortoises are herbivores and eat a variety of plants, including grasses, leaves, fruits, and flowers. They are also known to eat carrion. These tortoises are slow-moving and can live in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and deserts.

The long lifespan of Seychelles giant tortoises is due to a number of factors, including their slow metabolism, hardy immune system, and ability to store food in their bodies. These tortoises are also resistant to disease and parasites.

Other land animals that live for a long time include:

  • Galapagos tortoise: 150 years
  • African elephant: 70 years
  • Greenland shark: 400 years
  • Bowhead whale: 200 years
  • Ocean quahog clam: 500 years

These animals have all evolved to live in harsh environments and have developed a number of adaptations that help them to survive for long periods of time.

Factors Affecting longevity of Animals

Here are some of the factors that are involved in the longevity of these animals:

Slow metabolism

Animals with a slow metabolism use energy more efficiently, which helps them to live longer.

Hardy immune system

Animals with a strong immune system are better able to fight off disease and parasites, which can shorten lifespan.

Ability to store food

Animals that can store food in their bodies have a better chance of surviving periods of food scarcity.

Resistance to cold

Animals that are adapted to cold environments tend to live longer than animals that live in warm environments.

Low reproductive rate

Animals that reproduce slowly tend to live longer than animals that reproduce quickly. This is because they have more time to accumulate resources and avoid predators.