Which animal has the longest period of hibernation?

New research shows that its deep-freeze period can extend up to seven months a year, which is considerably longer than we'd previously believed. read more

New research shows that its deep-freeze period can extend up to seven months a year, which is considerably longer than we'd previously believed. Aside from some insects and microbes, the only other animal capable of such extraordinary hibernating abilities is the Siberian salamander, which can stay frozen for four to five months. read more

Hibernating animals aren’t sleeping; for the most part, they’re in a phase called torpor, “a state of hypo-metabolism, which includes a lowered body temperature, a lower breathing rate and pulse rate,” according to Dr. Hölzl. read more

But I think the animal with the longest dormancy period is the tadpole shrimp, or Triops. Their embryos are believed to be able to remain dormant (in a state called "diapause") for hundreds, and some even postulate MILLIONS of years, explaining why they may be the oldest animal species on earth. read more