shortfin mako

The shortfin mako, Isurus oxyrinchus, is a pelagic predator with a worldwide distribution in tropical and temperate seas. It is sometimes encountered near coasts. In June 2023, a specimen washed ashore on a beach in Marseillan, in the south of France. The shortfin mako is a member of the Lamnidae family, which includes three genera: Carcharodon, Lamna, and Isurus.

This species is highly sought after for its flesh as well as its fins and skin. Due to intensive fishing, it has been classified as endangered since 2018. Populations of this species are experiencing significant declines in all oceans, except the South Pacific.

Traditionally, the Shortfin Mako Shark is used in various ways, including fresh, dried, salted, smoked, and frozen. Additionally, a vitamin-rich oil is extracted from this species. Its fins continue to be targeted for shark fin soup preparation. The jaws and teeth of the Shortfin Mako Shark are also sold as ornaments and trophies.

This species is considered dangerous although attacks are rare. A study conducted by Kabasakal and de Maddalena in 2011 reported a historical record of a large specimen captured in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Turkey. This individual measured around 585 cm. Most observations report adult individuals measuring less than 3 meters.

The male has a pair of claspers, reproductive organs derived from the modification of pelvic fins, used to fertilize the female.

There is no information on the absolute size of the global population of the Shortfin Mako Shark. Studies have been conducted in various regions around the globe to assess the status of Shortfin Mako Shark populations. In the North Atlantic, formerly considered healthy, the stock is now classified as overexploited and subject to overfishing. Although stock assessments in the South Atlantic are deemed unreliable, it is likely that fishing mortality is unsustainable. In the Indian Ocean, the stock is not currently overexploited, but is subject to overfishing, with indications of biomass trajectories suggesting overexploitation trends. Conversely, in the North Pacific, the stock is likely not overexploited and there are no signs of overfishing. In the South Pacific, the population appears to be increasing.

The most alarming situation is in the Mediterranean Sea where it is reported to have lost 99.9% of its abundance since the early 19th century.