Types of Mako Sharks: Predators of the Ocean

When people think about sharks, they typically think of a great white. It is, after all, the great white that is known for whisking people off of surfboards and attacking swimmers. It is important to realize, though, that the Great White is not the only shark with an appetite for humans. While not as dangerous as a great white, the mako shark can still attack and kill humans who are out in the ocean.

There are two types of mako shark. Until 1966, both the longfin and shortfin mako sharks were considered to be of the same species. However, in 1966, it was decided that due to their differences, they needed to be grouped into two different categories. Scientists then decided to separate and examine the two different types of mako sharks. Since this has only been the case since 1966, much more is known about the short fin mako shark than the long fin.

Most likely, if you have encountered a mako shark, it has been a shortfin mako shark. Shortfin mako sharks are believed to be the fastest sharks in the ocean. Also, they are known for their acrobatics. A shortfin mako shark can leap up to twenty feet above the water. That aids the shortfin mako in catching its prey. It can jump and snatch something right up, before the prey even knew the shark was out there.

The shortfin mako shark has a healthy appetite. It feeds on bony fish, blue sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. It will also attack a human if the opportunity arises.

Shortfin mako sharks like to stick to temperate waters. Also, they will form a habitat as low as 490 feet down in the ocean. Those traits keep most swimmers from getting into contact with the shortfin mako shark. However, fishermen, surfers, and boaters can still encounter a short fin mako.

The white patch underneath the shortfin mako's chin makes it easily identifiable. Also, the short fin mako has a white belly.

Most people who have encountered the shortfin mako shark are fishermen. The shortfin mako can make a wonderful meal, and it is well sought after. However, if you hook one, it will give quite a struggle. Many a battle has occurred between fisherman and shark.

The longfin mako is not nearly as common as the shortfin mako. In fact, the longfin mako is a protected species. These sharks can not be fished for. They also taste bad, so they would not be sought after anyway.

The longfin mako does not have the same white patch under the chin as the shortfin mako. Also, while both species have large eyes, the longfin mako's eyes are even bigger, making it distinguishable from the shortfin.

Mako sharks have certain characteristics that distinguish them from other sharks. The female mako sharks are much bigger than the male mako sharks. Male mako sharks average 550 pounds, while the female can get as large as 1600 pounds. It is rare for the female of a species to be larger than the male.

Also, mako sharks are the fastest and most sophisticated of the pelagic sharks. They are a well developed species and have taught scientists much about ocean life. Still, while they are interesting to observe, one must remember that they can be dangerous.

If you do encounter a mako shark, maintain eye contact and get back to shore. If the shark attacks, fight back. It might be your only chance. Also, do not go out in the water early in the morning or late at night, when sharks are known to hunt for food.

While mako sharks are interesting creatures, everyone needs to remember they are predators. They can do a lot of damage to humans, and should only be viewed from afar.

Florida Museum of Natural History