Shortfin Mako Shark

ocean · super fast · endangered

Speediest shark alive. The shortfin mako can blast through the water at up to 46 miles per hour in short bursts, making it the fastest shark species on Earth.

Seriously big predator. These sharks grow to over 13 feet long and can weigh more than 1,260 pounds, making them among the largest mackerel sharks in the ocean.

Built for speed. Their sleek body shape, pointed nose, and powerful tail help them chase down fast-moving fish like tuna and mackerel that most other sharks could never catch.

In real trouble. The shortfin mako is classified as Endangered, which means their numbers are dropping and they need protection from overfishing.

Many nicknames. People call this shark by different names including the blue pointer and bonito shark, but mako shark is the most common one.