The Turritopsis dohrnii, also known as the immortal jellyfish, is a species of jellyfish that can potentially live forever due to its ability to reverse its life cycle.
Through a process called transdifferentiation, the immortal jellyfish can replenish its cells after sexual reproduction. This process allows adult cells to transform into other types of adult cells. When stressed, the jellyfish can revert to a polyp, which is a sexually immature stage of life. The polyp can then bud and produce new adult forms that are genetically identical to it.
The ability to repeat this cycle indefinitely makes the immortal jellyfish potentially biologically immortal. However, it is important to remember that it can still be killed by predators or other means.
The immortal jellyfish is relatively small, measuring approximately 4.5 millimeters wide and tall, and is found in temperate to tropic waters worldwide. Due to its reverse life cycle, it has been nicknamed the “Benjamin Button” jelly, as it is born old and dies young.
More creatures with no clear expiration date:
Hydras: Clone themselves instead of reproducing sexually.
Flatworms: Have a high capacity for regeneration due to their many pluripotent stem cells.
Ctenophores (comb jellies): Have large numbers of pluripotent stem cells that allow them to regenerate and rejuvenate.
Sponges: Have large numbers of pluripotent stem cells that allow them to regenerate and rejuvenate.
