How to Identify a Mako Shark

The mako shark is one of the most popular sport fishing targets in the ocean due to the sharks leaping ability, size, and fearsome reputation. The mako is certainly one of the fastest sharks in the ocean and is easily recognizable if you know what to look for.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. The first thing one would likely notice about a mako shark in the water is the fact that it is lightening quick. The mako shark is one of the fastest animals on the planet, and can shift direction on a dime. The mako shark has been clocked at over 50 mph and some believe it is capable of bursts up to 70 mph.

2. Another very telling characteristic of the mako shark is the fearsome looking mouth. The mako has teeth that are visible even when the mouth is closed. This gives the mako shark a very gruesome grin. This is not a sight you would want to see in the water.

3. The mako is cylinder shaped, and resembles a torpedo in general form. This streamlined build is one of the things that contributes to the incredible speed of the mako shark. The second dorsal fin is much smaller than the first, and the tail is tapered.

4. The mako has a blueish top and is white on the underside of its belly. The incredible color of the mako is a beautiful sight from the safety of a boat.

5. The mako shark usually weighs in at around 1500 pounds and is around 10 feet long. Much larger specimens have been recorded. This is one powerful shark.

Tips & Warnings

• The mako has incredible speed.
• The mako shark has teeth that are visible with the mouth closed.
• The mako is quite large at 10-14 feet.
• Never enter the water where a mako is around.
• The mako shark is very dangerous and has been known to attack humans.

[showpup]

on 11/17/2008 The mako is one of the reasons I have nightmares about being in the water yet, I must admit, I would still like to face that fear and see one someday. (preferably on a shark pole)