The Shortfin Mako shark is a marine predator known for its exceptional speed and strength. Found in tropical and temperate waters across the globe, this pelagic species is one of the ocean’s swiftest inhabitants. Its sleek design and powerful movements allow it to dominate its environment.
The Mako’s Record-Breaking Speed
The Shortfin Mako shark is widely considered the fastest shark species, capable of impressive speeds. Its top speeds are estimated to reach up to 45 miles per hour (74 kilometers per hour) during short bursts. These bursts allow the mako to pursue and capture agile prey.
Scientists estimate these speeds through various methods, including observations, tag data, and calculations. Recent studies using bio-loggers provided direct measurements, showing mean sustained cruising speeds of approximately 0.90 meters per second (about 2 mph). The maximum burst speed recorded from tagged individuals was 5.02 meters per second, or about 11 mph, showcasing the shark’s explosive power.
Maintaining high speeds demands significant energy. The Shortfin Mako exhibits some of the highest oxygen consumption rates among marine fish. Its ability to accelerate rapidly and maintain high speeds reflects its specialized physiology. This allows it to cover vast distances, with some individuals traveling over 1,700 miles (2,776 kilometers) across the ocean.
Built for Velocity
The Shortfin Mako’s incredible speed results from several biological and physiological adaptations. Its streamlined and torpedo-shaped body is a design that minimizes drag for efficient movement through water. A pointed snout and prominent caudal keel complement this hydrodynamic form, contributing to its sleek profile.
Propulsion is primarily generated by its powerful, crescent-shaped caudal fin, or tail, which has a high aspect ratio that produces maximum thrust with minimal resistance. The shark’s musculature also plays a significant role, particularly its centralized slow-twitch, oxidative red muscle. This muscle tissue operates more efficiently at higher temperatures, enabling stronger and faster contractions.
The Shortfin Mako also possesses a specialized circulatory system known as a countercurrent heat exchange system, or rete mirabile. This system allows the shark to maintain a body temperature several degrees warmer than the surrounding water, a capacity known as regional endothermy. This elevated internal temperature enhances muscle performance, providing an advantage for rapid bursts of speed and sustained activity in varying water temperatures.
Predatory Prowess
The Shortfin Mako’s exceptional speed is directly linked to its role as an apex predator in the marine food web. It primarily hunts fast-moving prey, including bony fish like tuna, mackerel, and swordfish, as well as squid. Its diet also includes other sharks, small marine mammals such as porpoises, sea turtles, and seabirds. High speeds are essential for capturing these agile targets.
The mako employs specific hunting techniques, often lunging vertically from below to surprise its prey. This ambush strategy allows it to approach unnoticed before striking. The shark’s speed and agility are also evident in its ability to leap completely out of the water, a behavior known as breaching. This behavior can occur during pursuit, with makos observed jumping as high as 20 feet above the surface. Breaching may serve as a means to surprise prey or dislodge parasites.