What are the mechanisms that enable giant tortoises to have exceedingly long natural life spans?

Question

Is there a genetic component or limited lack of predators?

In: 19

Answer 1

Low metabolism: it’s much slower than most other animals, which means that their bodies use energy at a much slower rate, and because of that their bodies dkn’t wear out as quickly as the bodies of other animals.

Also, they have a strong inmune system, which helps them to avoid getting sick and extend their life span. And their strong and protective shell helps them from predators, being less likely to be injured or killed, so they can live longer.