The Earth is home to an incredibly diverse range of creatures, and among them, some species have been able to survive for an impressively long time. Over the years, several animals have made their mark in history books as being some of the oldest creatures alive on Earth. This article will explore the oldest living creature on earth, including its characteristics and how it has survived for so long.

The Oldest Living Land Animal

The oldest living creature on earth is the Aldabra giant tortoise, also known as Aldabrachelys gigantea, which is found in the Aldabra Atoll in Seychelles. According to the Guinness World Records, the oldest known living terrestrial animal in the world is a giant tortoise called Jonathan, who was born in 1832 and is now over 190 years old as of 2022.

Characteristics of the Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Aldabra giant tortoises are the largest of the Indian Ocean tortoises, weighing up to 600 pounds and measuring up to 5 feet in length. They have a long, curved carapace that protects them from predators and helps them retain water. These tortoises are herbivorous and eat a variety of plants, including grasses, leaves, and fruit.

Why are Aldabra Tortoises So Long-Lived?

There are a few factors that have contributed to the longevity of Aldabra tortoises. One of the most important factors is their slow metabolic rate, which means that they require very little energy to survive. They are also able to store large amounts of water and food in their bodies, which allows them to survive for months without access to food or water.

Additionally, Aldabra tortoises have very few natural predators on their island home. The lack of predators, combined with the tortoises' armoured shells, has allowed them to survive for thousands of years. Conservation efforts have protected the tortoises in recent years, which has helped preserve their habitat and prevent poaching.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Aldabra giant tortoise is the oldest living creature on earth, with the record-holder, Jonathan, now over 190 years old. These tortoises have been able to survive for so long due to their slow metabolic rate, ability to store large amounts of water and food, lack of predators, and conservation efforts. Their longevity is a testament to the remarkable resilience and adaptability of nature and serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our planet's diverse range of species.