Blanding's turtles can stay submerged for months due to brumation, a reptile hibernation. However, they supplement this by absorbing oxygen through their cloacae. Cuvier's beaked whales hold the mammalian breath-holding record at 222 minutes, utilizing adaptations like slowed heart rate and anaerobic metabolism. The overall champion, however, is the loggerhead sea turtle, with a recorded dive lasting over 10 hours, benefiting from its ectothermic nature and oxygen-saving adaptations.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.