10 Fish Species With Remarkable Lifespans

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Some fish have the ability to live far beyond what you might expect, defying the typical lifespan of most pets. Their incredible longevity often takes scientists by surprise, with each species offering unique insights into survival. Keep reading to discover which aquatic creatures live longer than you’d expect.

Koi

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Koi are known for their remarkable longevity, often exceeding 50 years. Some have reached over 200 years, with Hanako, a famous Japanese koi, living for 226 years. Their extended lifespan is attributed to pristine care and their adaptability to stable pond environments, which makes the fish a symbol of endurance and prosperity in many cultures.

Orange Roughy

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This deep-sea fish found in cold waters at depths of 800 to 1,600 meters can live for over 150 years. Interestingly, their slow metabolism contributes to their long lifespan. Despite their longevity, they face threats from overfishing due to their late maturity and slow reproductive rate, prompting conservation efforts to maintain their population.

Atlantic Halibut

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Atlantic halibut, a flatfish prized for its meat, matures around 10 years but can live up to 50. Found in cold northern waters, its longevity, coupled with its immense size, makes it fascinating. These bottom dwellers continue to thrive despite commercial fishing pressures. They are the world’s largest flatfish, weighing up to 700 lbs.

Redbanded Rockfish

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This rockfish species, native to the Pacific Ocean, can live up to 106 years. Its diet mainly includes plankton, small crustaceans, small squid, and other fish. Redbanded rockfish’s incredible lifespan stems from their slow growth and preference for stable environments and the venom in the grooves of their spines to ward off predators.

Green Terror

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The green terror can live for over 30 years in optimal aquarium conditions. While its name suggests aggression, this fish’s longevity and vibrant appearance make it a favorite among dedicated aquarists. A spacious tank with excellent water quality and a high-quality diet all contribute to prolonging their lifespan.

Clown Loach

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Popular in aquariums, the clown loach can live for 40 years when kept in ideal conditions. Although they are well known for their playful behavior, their longevity surprises many hobbyists. Clown loaches need to be kept warm, and their social nature means they live in groups of five or more.

Blue Tang

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Famed as “Dory” from Finding Nemo, the blue tang can live for over 30 years in the wild. They are found in coral reefs, and their longevity reflects the stability of their habitat. Aquarium care often shortens their lifespan partly due to the difficulty of replicating natural conditions for these vibrant fish.

Amazonian Pacu

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This relative of the piranha can live for over 40 years. Found in South America’s rivers, its flat teeth and calm demeanor contrast with those of its carnivorous cousins. Amazonian pacus thrives in well-maintained aquariums, but its daunting size often surprises owners. A spacious aquarium with clean water and a varied but high-quality diet aid with their lifespan.

Bluehead Wrasse

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Though small, the bluehead wrasse can live for 30–40 years in stable reef environments. This fish is notable for its ability to change gender from female to male. Its lifespan for such a tiny fish defies expectations. When in captivity, modifications like a rock for hiding and a sand bed for burrowing improve the quality of life of the bluehead wrasse.

Goldfish

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Surprisingly, goldfish can live well beyond 30 years, with some documented cases surpassing 40 years in ideal conditions. Though often kept in small bowls, proper aquariums, and balanced diets can help goldfish thrive. Their longevity depends on how the care they receive. Interstingly, goldfishes are smart, and there are around 200 varieties.