Giant tortoise called Jonathan could hold the key to living to 200 years of age

Jonathan arrived in St. Helena as a gift to Sir William Grey-Wilson in 1882, who later became governor of the island. This image was taken around that time - Jonathan is on the left. (A.L. Innes via SWNS)

By Stephen Beech

A giant tortoise called Jonathan could hold the key to living to 200 years of age, say scientists.

Giant tortoise called Jonathan could hold the key to living to 200 years of age

Jonathan, an Aldabra giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea), is estimated to be 194 years old. This makes him the oldest living giant tortoise, and oldest land animal, in the world today. (Joe Holland via SWNS)

Giant tortoise called Jonathan could hold the key to living to 200 years of age

Jonathan has lived most of his life on the island of St Helena, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean, in grounds of Plantation House - the residence of the governor of St Helena. He arrived from the Seychelles 144 years ago, already fully grown, as a gift to the governor. (Joe Holland via SWNS)

Giant tortoise called Jonathan could hold the key to living to 200 years of age

Researchers say it's good genes and lack of genetic wear and tear that have kept Jonathan living for nearly two centuries. (Joe Holland via SWNS)

Originally published on talker.news, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.

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