Shortfin Mako Shark

The shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus), commonly known as the shortfin mako, blue pointer, or bonito shark, is a notable member of the mackerel shark family. Renowned for its remarkable speed, this species is the fastest recorded shark, capable of bursts reaching 74 km/h (46 mph). Adult shortfin makos can grow up to 4 meters (13 feet) in length and weigh as much as 570 kilograms (1,260 pounds). Currently, it is classified as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The term "mako" originates from the Māori language, referring to either the shark itself or a shark tooth. In English, "mako" is used in both singular and plural forms. This nomenclature likely stems from variations in Polynesian dialects, where similar words for shark exist, such as makō in Kāi Tahu Māori, mangō in other Māori dialects, mago in 🇼🇸 Samoan, ma'o in Tahitian, and mano in Hawaiian.

First described scientifically by Constantine Rafinesque in 1809 as Isurus oxyrinchus, where Isurus signifies "the same tail" and oxyrinchus denotes "pointy snout," the shortfin mako is a sizable species within the lamnid family. It exhibits an accelerated growth rate compared to its relatives. Typically, adult specimens measure between 2.5 and 3.2 meters (8.2 to 10.5 feet) in length, with a weight range of 60–140 kilograms (130–310 pounds). Sexual dimorphism is apparent, as females tend to be larger than males. Remarkably large individuals have been documented, with mature females occasionally reaching lengths of 3.8 meters (12 feet) and weights of 550 kilograms (1,210 pounds).

The shortfin mako is characterized by its cylindrical shape and distinctive countershading, featuring a metallic blue dorsal side and a white ventral side. The clear demarcation between these colorations highlights its adaptation to open ocean environments. Morphological differences from the closely related longfin mako shark include larger pectoral fins, distinctive mouth coloration, and more prominent eyes. Among the fastest swimmers in the ocean, the shortfin mako is often likened to the "cheetah" or "peregrine falcon of sharks" due to its speed.

Dwelling in offshore temperate and tropical waters globally, the shortfin mako is predominantly pelagic, inhabiting depths up to 150 meters (490 feet) and typically remains far from land. This species is one of the few endothermic sharks, maintaining a body temperature slightly above that of the surrounding water, enhancing its agility and hunting efficiency.

In North Atlantic regions, the shortfin mako ranges from the 🌊 Gulf of Mexico to Nova Scotia. It is considered neither rare nor abundant in Canadian waters. Swordfish populations serve as indicators of shortfin mako presence, sharing similar environmental preferences and acting as a primary food source.

As a highly migratory species, shortfin makos traverse great distances in pursuit of prey or mates. Notable movements include a female shark tagged off California traveling over 2,776 kilometers (1,725 miles) to the central Pacific within a 37-day period.

The diet of the shortfin mako predominantly consists of cephalopods and bony fish, such as mackerels, tunas, and swordfish. Their hunting behavior involves sudden vertical lunges to tear chunks from prey, often approaching from below for optimal positioning. Instances of swordfish inflicting severe injury on makos have been recorded, indicating a complex and dynamic predator-prey relationship.

In terms of energy consumption, shortfin mako sharks require approximately 3% of their body weight in food daily and can take 1.5 to 2 days to digest a typical meal. This contrasts with species like the more lethargic sandbar shark. Larger makos, over 3 meters, possess specialized teeth to effectively prey on dolphins and other large marine creatures.

Recent research has identified the shortfin mako's powerful bite, with a recorded bite force reaching 3,000 pounds (approximately 13,000 newtons) during experiments in 🇳🇿 New Zealand. This capability, coupled with their endothermic physiology, contributes to their exceptional speed and hunting prowess.

Reproduction in shortfin makos involves a yolk-sac ovoviviparous process, resulting in live births after a gestation of 15 to 18 months. Notable within reproduction strategies is the documentation of polyandry, where females mate with multiple males, leading to broods sired by diverse fathers.

Brain size relative to body mass in shortfin makos is among the largest in shark species, prompting scientific interest in their cognitive capabilities. Studies have revealed sophisticated learning abilities and adaptive behaviors, as well as a reliance on smell, hearing, and visual cues over electroreception for detecting prey.

Sportfishing enthusiasts highly regard the shortfin mako for their speed and agility, making them sought-after game fish. Catch-and-release practices have gained popularity in regions like San Diego, California, where efforts to promote sustainable fishing have been implemented.

The International Shark Attack File records a limited number of incidents involving shortfin mako sharks and humans, with many perceived to be the result of provocation. Nonetheless, the species' formidable capabilities and striking presence continue to captivate both scientists and the public alike.