Shortfin Mako
Isurus oxyrinchus
- Group: Shark
- Typical depth: 0–888 m
- Max size: 4.5 m
- For divers: dangerous
- IUCN status: EN
Built like a torpedo, this is among the fastest of all sharks and the top fish predator in the open ocean off eastern Australia. It usually patrols surface waters but dives to several hundred metres in pursuit of fast fish like tuna and billfish. Powerful and quick to react, it warrants real caution, and overfishing has pushed it onto the endangered list.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Elasmobranchii › Lamniformes › Lamnidae › Isurus
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 105839.
FAQ
- How deep does the Shortfin Mako live?
- The Shortfin Mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) is typically found at 0–888 m.
- Is the Shortfin Mako dangerous to divers?
- The Shortfin Mako can be dangerous; divers should keep their distance.
- How big does the Shortfin Mako get?
- The Shortfin Mako grows to about 4.5 m.