Greenland shark stranding in Ireland reveals species' extreme longevity

In April 2026 a dead Greenland shark about 3 metres long and estimated to be over 150 years old washed ashore on the tidal flats of County Sligo, Ireland. It is the first documented stranding of this deep‑sea species on the Irish coast. Weighing more than 200 kg, the carcass was recovered using a crane by the National Museum of Ireland together with volunteers and scientists.

Marine biologists from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and University College Cork examined the shark, noting its potential lifespan of 300‑500 years, making it the longest‑lived vertebrate known. Emilie De Loose commented, “It’s such a pity. This guy – it took him 150 years to get to the point where he could have reproduced, could have contributed to get the population on track, and may not have had the chance.” The find offers a rare opportunity to study the species’ biology, including its unique eyes and chemical composition, which renders its flesh toxic.

The study aims to improve understanding of the Greenland shark’s ecology and long‑term survival in the deep North Atlantic.