Shortfin Mako Shark

The fastest known shark, the shortfin mako shark Isurus oxyrinchus lives in temperate and tropical seas worldwide. When hooked by sports anglers, individuals have been seen to leap 6m (20 ft) clear of the water at speeds estimated to be over 75 km/h (46 mph). Inshore, in the north-west Atlantic, it feeds on fast-swimming fish, such as various species of mackerel and bluefish, while offshore the most common prey are various kinds of squid.

The shortfin mako is identified by its large eyes, dagger-like teeth and the blue, metallic sheen of its body.