Shortfin Mako Shark: Isurus oxyrinchus

Appearance:

• Lunate tail with similarly sized lobes
• Lateral keel at the base of the tail
• Deep blue back and white underside
• Underside of sharply pointed snout white
• Origin of first dorsal entirely behind base of pectoral fins
• Second dorsal fin slightly in front of anal fin
• Slender, recurved teeth with smooth edge

Habitat:

Shortfin mako sharks are an offshore fish, often seen near the surface of the water.

Behavior:

These fish are active and strong swimming.  Shortfin mako are known for leaping out of the water when hooked.  They feed on mackerel, tuna, sardines, and some much larger fish.

State Record:

911 lb 12 oz, caught near Palm Beach

Fishing Tips and Facts:

Additional Information:

These sharks are similar in appearance to the white shark, Carcharodon carcharias and the longfin mako, I. paucus. 

Image Credit: Diane Rome Peebles