Shortfin Mako Shark

By 31/08/2020Fish

« Mako » comes from Maori language and mean « shark » or « shark tooth ». The scientific name is from isurus that which means « same tail » and oxyrinchus that means « pointy snout ».

CHARACTERISTICS

Latin name: Isurus oxyrinchus
Order: Lamniformes
Family: Lamnidae
Length: up to 3.2 m
Weight: up to 600 kg
IUCN Status: Vulnerable

 

 

DESCRIPTION

  • Color: Brilliant metallic blue and white on the ventral part
  • Head: Snout is conical and pointed
  • Dentition: 3 to 5 ridges and 3 marginal big teeth
  • Gills: 5 to 7 pairs
  • Caudal Fin: Lunate, crescent-shaped

 

HABITAT

Shorftin Mako Sharks are true pelagic species with a worldwide distribution. They are mainly in open ocean, but can be observed near the coast. They spend their time from to surface to about 500 m in depth.

DIET

Shorftin Mako Sharks mainly feed on fish (e.g., billfish, herring, swordfish, codfish, tuna), squid, and even on other sharks. They swim below their prey before making a sudden approach, giving them a high probability of reaching their target before being noticed.

REPRODUCTION

Shortfin Mako sharks are a yolk-sac ovoviviparous and reach sexual maturity at around 7-9 years (males) and 18-21 years (female). They give birth to live young which measure at around 60-70cm. The gestation period last at around 15-18 months.

 

 

Marylou

About Marylou

Marylou is a Marine Biologist and Master in Oceanography. She is one of our Marine Wildlife Guide and is responsible for Science Education at TERRA AZUL. Originally from France, she studied in Canada and Belgium and loves being out to sea to share her knowledge with you.

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