Fauna
Fish

Shortfin Mako

Isurus oxyrinchus

Also known as Shortfin Mako Shark, Blue Pointer, Bonito Shark, Mackerel Shark

Shortfin mako sharks patrol offshore blue waters across the globe as the ocean's fastest predatory sharks, capable of bursts surpassing 70 km/h. They maintain elevated body temperatures via countercurrent heat exchangers in their muscle tissue, fueling explosive vertical leaps when ambushing agile pelagic fish from below. Slow growth rates and late maturity leave these apex predators deeply vulnerable to longline fishing and target harvesting.

PelagicApex PredatorFast Swimmer
Shortfin Mako reference1 / 4
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EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAtlantic Bluefin Tuna, Swordfish, Shortfin Squid
Predators
  • Killer Whale
  • Great White Shark
ThreatsPelagic longline bycatch, targeted commercial fisheries for fins and meat, game fishing
HabitatsEpipelagic open ocean, temperate and tropical offshore marine waters
Life span28–35 years
Classification
  1. FamilyLamnidae
  2. SpeciesIsurus oxyrinchus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Large, fast-swimming oceanic predator capable of severe bites; maintain a safe distance when diving.
Why it is dangerous
Equipped with elongated, awl-like teeth designed to puncture swift prey, delivered with immense biting force that causes traumatic lacerations.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a conical snout, deep cobalt-blue dorsal coloration with pure white undersides, and large dark eyes.
What to do
Never touch or corner an adult; keep arms tucked close to your body and exit pelagic water steadily without turning your back.
What to notice
Distinguished in open blue pelagic waters by exceptionally slender gill slits, crescent tail fin, and sheer burst speed.
Support conservation
Support catch-and-release ocean policies and report any illegal targeting or sales of mako shark fins to maritime wildlife agencies.
Responsible observation
  • Diving Etiquette: Maintain continuous eye contact and avoid erratic splashing when observing in open water.
  • Boating Precautions: Keep hands and feet inside the vessel, as hooked makos frequently leap aboard.
Related species
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