PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION
Mako sharks are distinctive because of the sleek streamlined
appearance, with large gill slits, a pointed snout, large mouth with long
teeth and long narrow pectoral fins. The intense blue color and distinct
countershade line are also characteristic of this strikingly beautiful shark.

COMMON NAMES
Shortfin, mako

SWIMMING PATTERNS
Mako sharks swim with a series of muscle contractions along with a sideways
movement of the tail. They have a stiffer body than the other sharks, propelling
itself through the water with short strokes of its thick, powerful tail.

BREEDING AND FEEDING HABITS
Mako sharks can have up to 10 pups, which are developed inside the mother.
The breeding of Mako is similar to that of the porbeagle. The pups can reach
sizes between 25 to 30 inches.
Feeding: They feed on a variety of other fishes, especially mackerel, tuna, and
bointos. It is one of the few predators of swordfish.

HABITAT
Makos are worldwide in distribution, favouring tropical temperate waters.
They do not school, and they are never seen in very large numbers. Like the
porbeagle, the mako tends to inhabit deeper waters than the great white shark.

GROWTH
The oldest female shark known was to be 11.5 years old at a length of 3.28
meters. The oldest male found was known to be 4.5 years old at a length
of 2.25 meters.