The shortfin mako shark is a large, predatory shark that lives in the open ocean and reaches lengths of 12 feet (3.8 m) and weights of at least 1200 pounds (545 kg). With top speeds of 45 miles per hour (74 kilometers per hour), the shortfin mako is the fastest shark and is one of the fastest fishes on the planet. This species’ athleticism is not restricted to its swimming speeds. It is known for its incredible leaping ability and can be observed jumping to extreme heights (out of the water) when hunting.
Both shortfin and longifn mako shark species are globally endangered due to overfishing. Makos are heavily targetted for their fins, which are used for Shark Fin Soup.
There are two species of mako shark; longfin and shortfin.
Shortfin mako shark can reach speeds of at least 31 mph.
Male and female shortfin makos seem to avoid each other.
Ernest Hemingway wrote about them in "The Old Man and The Sea."
They are extremely intelligent due their large brains relative to their body size.