It’s a tricky task, trying to figure out precisely how old a shark is. It has mystified marine biologists for decades – and it was just a matter of time before we developed tech that’s good enough to give us accurate results.

That time only happened quite recently.

Scientists always presumed that, because they are apex predators, they take longer to mature. They factored this into their original estimation of around 23 years.

It turns out, though, that Great White sharks can live just as long as we do – if not longer. The most recent research claims that they live an average lifespan of about 70 years.

In the past, researchers would look at shark teeth, bones or vertebrae. But a revolutionary new carbon-dating system has allowed researchers to gain more precise results.

During their research, they discovered a male shark that was 73 years old, and a female shark was 40 years old.

Without a doubt, the Sharks that travel along our shores could well be older. If you fancy spotting some of them, or if you’re into taking leave of your sanity and swimming with them, check out the five-star Grootbos Private Nature Reserve.

They’ll indulge you.

[Source : NBC News]