Shortfin Mako Shark (Isurus oxyrinchus)

The Shortfin Mako Shark or Isurus oxyrinchus is one of the two different species of Mako Sharks, the other being the Longfish Mako Shark (Isurus paucus). These sharks are found in many places around the world including the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans, normally from the surface down to depths of 490 ft (150m). They are medium sized sharks growing to about 13 feet (3.96m) in length, and weighing in at 1750lbs (794kg) maximum. You can check out the Shortfin Mako Shark underwater in the video below...

Shortfin Mako Sharks have a bluish black and white underbelly with the classic shark features. These sharks teeth are curved inward, and visible even when the sharks mouth is closed. They are extremely fast and tend to jump out of the water, there have even been reports of Makos jumping into fishing boats! They have be differentiated from other sharks by their short pectoral fins, crescent tail and caudal keel on the caudal base.

Feeding on Mackerel, Tuna, Swordfish and Sailfish can be a dangerous game for the Shortfin Mako Shark. In fact, many Shortfin Makos have been found impaled by the Swordfish or Sailfish's bill. They will also prey on smaller sharks, sea turtles and small porpoises. If you have any additional information about the Shortfin Mako please share...