Discover the whale species that holds the record for longest life in the mammal world

(Dan Tri) - In the world of mammals, no species can match the bowhead whale in terms of longevity. This giant creature living in the Arctic can live up to 200 years, an astonishing number.

When you think of the longest-living creatures on Earth, many people might think of turtles or blue whales. However, the reigning champion among mammals belongs to the bowhead whale ( Balaena mysticetus ).

This giant whale, larger than a school bus, is known to live for more than 200 years. This means that some of the bowhead whales swimming around the Arctic today may have been alive when the classic novel Moby-Dick was written in 1851.

A bowhead whale swims through blue water towards the ice in the Arctic (Photo: Vicki Beaver).

Unique evidence from the ocean

The bowhead whale’s extraordinary longevity has been confirmed in unexpected ways. In 2007, Native hunters in Alaska found a stone harpoon embedded in the blubbery body of a whale.

The harpoon was identified as a patented weapon design that was popular between 1885 and 1895. Based on the discovery, scientists estimate the whale was about 115 years old.

However, scientists have found a more accurate way to age whales: by analyzing the lenses of their eyes. Their lenses contain an amino acid called aspartate, which exists in both left-handed and right-handed forms. These two forms accumulate in the lens at a predictable rate throughout the whale's life.

By analyzing the ratio of these two forms, scientists can accurately calculate the age of whales. A 1999 study used this method to analyze the eyes of 48 whales, and the results showed that one individual had an estimated lifespan of up to 211 years.

Unique evidence, from ancient spears embedded in their bodies to genetic analysis, has helped scientists uncover the secrets of their extraordinary longevity (Photo: Tony Wu/naturepl.com).

Biomechanics and Miraculous Survival

Bowhead whales are remarkably adapted to the harsh, icy environment of the Arctic. Their massive, stocky bodies, which can grow up to 60 feet long and weigh up to 200,000 pounds, help them retain heat effectively.

Their blubber, which can be up to 50cm thick, acts as perfect insulation. Unlike many other whale species, they do not have dorsal fins, a feature that helps them swim easily under sea ice.

Biologically, their remarkable longevity may be linked to a duplication of a gene called CDKN2C, which is known to suppress abnormal cell division and prevent cancer. The duplication of this gene appears to protect bowhead whales against age-related diseases, although it has a negative impact on male fertility.

Although some other large mammals such as elephants (which live up to 70 years) and blue whales (which live up to 90 years) also have long lifespans, none can compare to the bowhead whale.

The story of this whale is a living testament to the complexity and wonder of evolution, where giant creatures can survive and thrive in the harshest of environments.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/khoa-hoc/kham-pha-loai-ca-voi-giu-ky-luc-tho-nhat-trong-the-gioi-dong-vat-co-vu-20250930084449899.htm