New research, published in the Royal Society Journal Biology Letters, suggests that the Olm-a blind amphibious salamander-seems to defy all current theories of ageing. The most extraordinary thing about this creature is its incredible longevity-it can live for up to 100 years. Previous studies have suggested that longer lifespan in animals tends to be associated with a large body size, and slow metabolic rate. Olms are small (around 20-30 cm), and have an ordinary metabolic rate for amphibians. This means that the cause of their longevity is a mystery. If further research can uncover the secret, we might also unlock the secret of eternal youth.
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