Species · GBIF taxon 5216248
Shortfin Mako
Isurus oxyrinchusAlso known as Blue Pointer, Bonito Shark, Mako Shark, Mackerel Shark
Shortfin mako sharks are the undisputed speed champions of the ocean, utilizing a specialized heat-exchange system to keep their muscles warmer than the surrounding water for explosive bursts of speed. These streamlined predators cruise temperate and tropical open oceans worldwide, frequently leaping high out of the water when hunting or hooked. Their striking metallic blue coloration, crescent-shaped tail, and large, black eyes make them instantly recognizable pelagic hunters.
PelagicFast-swimmingPredatory
Licensed reference(c) jidanchaomian, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
—observations
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EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Swordfish
- Tuna
- Squid
Predators
- Orcas
- Great white sharks
- Humans
ThreatsOverfishing, bycatch in longline fisheries, and the shark fin trade
HabitatsPelagic zone of temperate and tropical oceans
Life span29 to 32 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyLamnidae
- SpeciesIsurus oxyrinchus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskHigh
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is high
- Capable of high-speed charges and powerful bites; maintain a safe distance if encountered in open water.
- Why it is dangerous
- Possesses immense speed, power, and razor-sharp teeth capable of inflicting fatal wounds if provoked or cornered.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a highly streamlined, metallic blue body, a white underside, and a sharply pointed snout.
- What to do
- Never attempt to spear, hook, or closely approach; back away slowly if encountered while diving.
- What to notice
- Recognizable by its crescent-shaped tail fin, long slender gill slits, and dark blue back.
- Support conservation
- Support sustainable seafood choices and advocate for international bans on mako retention.
Responsible observation
- Keep Distance: Never attempt to feed, touch, or closely approach these highly active pelagic predators.
- Watch for Leaps: Be alert when boating in mako territory, as hooked individuals can leap high into vessels.
Prey Close Relative 
Close Relative "Great White Shark" by Elias Levy is licensed under CC BY 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/. · cc-byClose Relative
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