Why do turtles live so long?

Turtles live exceptionally long lives due to their slow metabolism, which reduces cellular damage over time. Many species, such as the Galápagos tortoise, can live over 100 years, with some individuals exceeding 150 years. Their lifestyle also contributes to longevity; turtles have few natural predators once they reach adulthood and experience minimal stress. Additionally, their ability to go long periods without food or water helps them survive in challenging environments. Turtles’ long lifespans are a fascinating area of study in understanding ageing in vertebrates.