Genes Reveal How Some Rockfish Live up to 200 Years

Some Pacific Ocean rockfishes can live for more than 200 years. Their secret to longevity: slowly growing large in the frigid depths. Researchers have found that the longest-lived rockfishes, a group that includes several species that can live for more than 105 years, have genes that indirectly affect lifespan by influencing size and adaptability. They also have more copies of genes linked to DNA maintenance and resisting the inflammation that often comes with age.