Shortfin Mako
Streamlined Beauty of the Oceans

It is a very active shark and can cover large distances in a short period of time. It is thought to be the fastest of all shark species and one of the fastest fish in the ocean.

It is also an excellent jumper, capable of reaching heights of more than 6m. This athletic ability makes it a sought after target for game fishermen.

Size
Pups are usually around 60 - 70cm at birth. Mature females can reach lengths of 274 - 290cm and males attain a size of 200 - 215cm. The maximum recorded length was 390cm.

Colouring
The dorsal, or upper side, varies in colour from vivid blue to grey, while the ventral, or underside, is pale/white.

Fins
The first dorsal fin is situated between the pectoral and the pelvic fins. The second dorsal and the anal fin are very small and sit well back on the tail. The caudal, or tail, fin is crescent shaped and fairly symmetrical, with the lower lobe being almost as long as the upper.

Teeth
The teeth are long and slightly curved. They have no serrations and are very sharp. Even when the mouth is closed the teeth are still visible, especially in the lower jaw.

Diet
Mainly fish, including other sharks, also squid and occasionally turtles and marine mammals.

Reproduction
Shortfin Mako have a gestation period of between 15 and 18 months and are ovoviviparous with oophagy occurring in the later stages of development. Litter sizes range from 4 to 25 pups with more, and bigger, pups being born to larger females.

Due to the long gestation period, females give birth once every two to three years.

Distribution

It is found worldwide in tropical and temperate waters. Although it is warm-blooded and able to maintain a body temperature higher than the surrounding water, it prefers waters above 16ºC.

Shortfin Mako Distribution Map

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