Shortfin 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.