Shortfin Mako Shark

Mako Shark

Isurus oxyrinchus

Size:
to 12 ft

Habitat:
open ocean, coastal

Notes: dangerous

A smaller cousin of the Great White, Mako sharks are renowned for their speed, and their powerful and aerobatic fight when hooked. They are also thought by some researchers to possess greater intelligence than other species. As a result of over-exploitation by long-liners and sport fishermen, the local population has collapsed, and large trophy-sized individuals have not been caught off New Jersey for many years, although small ones are still common.

Shortfin Mako Sharks are generally considered to be excellent table fare. Not so for Longfin Makos, which are found in the deep ocean, out beyond the Gulf Stream.

Mako Shark
The Mako has a snow-white belly much like its larger cousin the Great White.
Mako Shark
Large Makos are said to be capable of leaping more than 20 feet out of the water.
Mako Shark
A hooked Mako near the surface, showing the distinct white patch around the mouth.
Promotional video for Shark Shield electronic shark repeller
It seems to be pretty effective

Environmental organizations are both good and bad. State and federal governments have large departments that oversee environmental issues such as water and air pollution. These agencies have staffs of scientists and experienced technical personnel to plan and implement environmental protection programs and monitor environmental quality, and they generally manage to get the job done on their own.

While it is good that private citizens take an interest in such matters as well, private environmental groups often do as much harm as good. What they may lack in technical and scientific proficiency, they often make up for with media savvy. A phone call to Eye Witness News and the mere utterance of any number of keywords ( such as simply POLLUTION ! ) will automatically get their opinions on the air and in print, whether they are right or wrong.

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