Other than the whale, they are also all cold-blooded creatures. I'm guessing that the need to burn energy constantly to stay warm is not as good for longevity as the ability to conserve energy by being cold-blooded.

Actually, stuff can die from old age without cancer you know :)

This might be among the "longest" living animals:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2177/...0667313f6c.jpg

Nice one.

for the record, sharks can get cancer. It has been documented in captivity. Also, while old age increases likelyhood of getting cancer, cancer isn't the cause; it's a symptom. decreased immune functionality, deteriorating muscle mass, shortening telomeres, decreased metabolism, worn out joints etc etc are all results of old age.

To add another one that is pretty interesting... The Greenland Shark. Not only is it's lifespan impressive, but its slow rate of growth (indicating possible long life span, going with the afforementioned trend).

Scientists have suggested it can live up to 200, even 400 years. It was on 'dirty jobs' once, and the researcher suggested they could live for 200-400 years IIRC.

Couple links:

http://www.marinebiodiversity.ca/sha.../greenland.htm
http://www.examiner.com/x-4002-Green...d-for-dog-food

Interesting stuff, all the ones previously listed!

They are called britslecone pines.

Went whale watching this summer and got to see the oldest recorded orca at just over 100 years old (can't remember her exact age). She is still going strong .