Isurus oxyrinchus

Distinguishing Characteristics:

  • A relatively stout body that tapers at both ends
  • Sharply pointed snout
  • Moderately short pectoral fins
  • Color steely blue above and white below

Habitat: From the surface to about 1,640 feet, in warm to warm-temperate waters where the temperature of the water is above 60°F

Size: To about 12.9 feet

Note: In the Old Man and the Sea, it is the shortfin mako that steals the marlin from Hemingway’s old Cuban fisherman.


Shortfin makos are considered the fastest sharks over short distances, superior even to great whites when it comes to quick bursts of speed. See how hard it is to race one in the water. (Source: National Geo WILD)