The scientists have named the record-breaking Ocean Quahog mollusc Ming the Clam after the Chinese dynasty that was in power 410 years ago. When Ming was in his infancy, Elizabeth I was England’s queen and William Shakespeare was still writing plays!

According to the Guinness Book of Records, the officially recognised longest-lived animal is a 220-year-old clam. Unofficially though, Ming’s closest rival is a 374-year-old clam currently housed in an Icelandic museum.

Record-breaking animals

Although Ming’s record lifespan isn’t likely to be threatened by any other animals, there are several species famous for their longevity. Aldabra Giant Tortoises can live for over 200 years. Adwaita, an Aldabra who resides at Alipore Zoological Gardens, is believed to be 256 years old – making him the world’s oldest living animal. Back in the ocean, Bowhead Whales can live for up to 240 years while some Koi Fish have reportedly lived up to 200 years.

Perhaps the most well-known aged animal was Harriet the Galapogas Tortoise who sadly died in June 2006 aged 175 years of age. She was collected by Charles Darwin in 1835 and taken to England before being shipped to Australia six years later. Harriet became the most famous resident of the late Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo and her landmark 175th birthday was attended by hundreds of well-wishers.