San Francisco’s Steinhart Aquarium Unveils Incredible Find.
Introduction: In a remarkable discovery at the Steinhart Aquarium in San Francisco, Methuselah, an Australian lungfish, has emerged as the world’s oldest known aquarium fish, captivating visitors and scientists alike. This ancient aquatic resident has provided invaluable insights into the longevity of her species and their remarkable adaptability to captivity.
Methuselah’s Arrival: Methuselah embarked on her transoceanic journey in November 1938 aboard an ocean liner, during a time when the United States was recovering from the Great Depression. She was one of 230 fish making the voyage, but today, she stands as the sole surviving aquatic legacy of that vessel. Over the decades, Methuselah has become a beloved member of the Steinhart Aquarium community, captivating visitors with her gentle disposition and leisurely movements.
Age and DNA Analysis: For years, Methuselah’s age remained a mystery, shrouded in the mists of time. However, recent DNA analysis has yielded astonishing results, estimating her age to be at least 92 years, firmly establishing her as the world’s oldest aquarium fish. This analysis has also hinted at the possibility of her being even older, potentially surpassing the century mark. Such exceptional longevity serves as a testament to her resilience and the extraordinary care she has received at the Steinhart Aquarium.
The Australian Lungfish: Methuselah belongs to the unique species of the Australian lungfish, Neoceratodus forsteri. Astonishingly, these lungfish are more closely related to terrestrial creatures like humans or cows than to the typical ray-finned fish we commonly associate with underwater life, such as salmon or cod. Their ability to breathe air using a single lung when water conditions become unfavorable is an extraordinary adaptation that showcases their resilience.
Moreover, the Australian lungfish is considered a living relic, offering a glimpse into evolutionary history as one of the original creatures that transitioned from water to land.
Conclusion: Methuselah’s story is a living testament to resilience and longevity, captivating visitors at the Steinhart Aquarium with each passing day. As the world’s oldest known aquarium fish, she serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of conservation efforts and the need to provide exceptional care for unique aquatic species like the Australian lungfish.
Her remarkable journey and age are poised to inspire future generations to appreciate and protect the diversity of our aquatic ecosystems. Methuselah’s presence at the Steinhart Aquarium stands as a living connection to the past, a cherished inhabitant in the world of aquaria, and a symbol of the enduring wonder of Earth’s natural world.
Resources:
3.https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/sep/24/lungfish-australia-methuselah-san-francisco