Meet 5 world’s oldest turtles that have lived for centuries

Meet 5 World’s Oldest Turtles that have lived for centuries. (Image: Canva)

• Tortoises living over 200 years fascinate scientists and animal lovers.
• Jonathan, Harriet, Tu’i Malila, Adwaita and Alagba are some of the oldest turtles.
• Tortoises' slow metabolism and strong immunity help them resist ageing.

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Turtles and tortoises are among the longest-living animals on Earth. Some individuals have survived for more than two centuries, witnessing historic events, scientific discoveries, and generations of human life. Their extraordinary lifespans continue to fascinate scientists and animal lovers alike.

Ancient Survivors of the Animal Kingdom

Unlike most reptiles, tortoises have slow metabolisms, strong immune systems and protective shells. These traits reduce stress on their bodies, allowing them to age more slowly than many other animals.

The Five World’s Oldest Turtles

These ancient reptiles are not just animals but they are living history books. Their remarkable lifespans offer scientists rare insights into ageing, resilience and the biology of long life. From Jonathan to Alagba, here are five world's oldest turtles in the world: -

Jonathan: The Oldest Living Land Animal

Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise, is believed to be over 190 years old. Living on the island of Saint Helena, he has survived since the 19th century. Despite losing his eyesight and sense of smell, Jonathan remains healthy under expert care.

Jonathan: The Oldest Living Land Animal (Image: X/@Parinday_)

Harriet: A Galapagos Wonder

Harriet was a Galapagos tortoise collected during Charles Darwin’s 1835 voyage. She lived in Australia until 2006, reaching an estimated age of 175 years. Her long life connected modern science to one of history’s greatest naturalists.

Harriet: A Link to Charles Darwin (Image: X/@Parinday_)

Tu’i Malila: Tonga’s Royal Tortoise

Gifted to the Tongan royal family by Captain James Cook in the 1700s, Tu’i Malila lived for nearly 189 years. After her death, her preserved body was displayed in the royal palace as a symbol of cultural and scientific heritage.

Tu’i Malila: Tonga’s Royal Tortoise (Image: X/@Parinday_)

Adwaita: The Age Mystery

Adwaita, an Aldabra giant tortoise from India’s Alipore Zoo, was claimed to be over 250 years old. However, scientists debate this due to limited historical records, showing how difficult it can be to verify extreme animal ages.

Adwaita: The Age Mystery (Image: X/@Parinday_)

Alagba: A Nigeria's Legend 

Alagba, a Nigerian tortoise, was said to be 344 years old. While the story is culturally significant, experts believe the species’ biology does not support such an age, highlighting the difference between folklore and scientific evidence.

Alagba: The Nigerian Legend (Image: X/@Parinday_)

Why Turtles Live So Long?

Tortoises have slow heart rates, low metabolic stress and strong DNA repair systems. These factors protect their cells from damage, helping them resist ageing far better than many mammals. Their biology offers clues about how life can be extended naturally.

Many giant tortoise species are endangered due to habitat loss and climate change. Conserving them protects not just wildlife but also living records of Earth’s history.