Bigmouth buffalo fish are the world's longest-lived freshwater fish, with some individuals known to live over 100 years.
Despite their longevity, scientists are concerned about their population decline, as they have not produced surviving offspring in over six decades.
New studies show that these fish do not exhibit typical age-related decline, and may even improve biologically as they age, challenging existing aging theories.
A recent finding indicates that a majority of the fish in Minnesota's Rice Lake are over 50, raising concerns about the absence of younger generations.
Conservationists stress the importance of protecting this species, as they lack effective legal safeguards and face threats from predation and human activities.