Fun Facts About Mako Sharks
When it comes to sharks, the Mako doesn’t just swim—it zooms, leaps, and steals the show. Known as the fastest shark in the world, the Shortfin Mako Shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) is equal parts predator, performer, and ocean oddball.
If sharks had a talent show, the Mako would win every time—probably by doing flips in the air while grinning wildly. Let’s dive into some of the most fun and quirky facts about Mako sharks that will make you see them in a whole new light.
3 Fun Facts About Mako Sharks
1. The Fastest Fish in the Sea
Speed: Up to 60 km/h (37 mph)
Nickname: The Ferrari of the Ocean
Mako sharks don’t just swim—they fly through the water like underwater missiles. Their sleek, torpedo-shaped bodies and powerful tails help them become the fastest shark species on Earth.
But here’s the funny part:
Makos are so fast, they sometimes overshoot their prey… or accidentally yeet themselves out of the water. It’s like their internal GPS is on “sprint mode” 24/7.
If sea creatures held races, Mako sharks would win gold every time—and probably brag about it to dolphins.
2. They Leap Like Circus Performers (No, Really)
Height of Jumps: Up to 20 feet (6 meters)
Known Behavior: Breaching (yes, like whales do)
Makos are the acrobats of the ocean. When they get hooked or excited, they’ll literally launch themselves into the air—sometimes into fishing boats! Imagine reeling in your dinner and ending up in a wrestling match with a flying shark.
Some experts think breaching is part of their hunting strategy. Others say they’re just doing it for the attention. Either way, it’s working.
3. They’re Always Smiling ( When They’re Not Happy Too)
One look at a Mako shark and you’ll notice something instantly:
THE TEETH.
Makos have long, needle-like teeth that are always visible, even when their mouths are shut. This gives them a permanent, creepy-cute smile that says:
This toothy grin has earned them nicknames like “the smiling assassin.” But don’t be fooled—behind that smile is one of the ocean’s smartest and most efficient predators.
Bonus fun fact? Mako sharks have the highest brain-to-body ratio of any shark, meaning they’re probably smart enough to know they look intimidating—and they love it.
Final Splash: The Ultimate Ocean Show-Offs
Between their jet-speed swimming, high-flying antics, and killer smile, Mako sharks are the divas of the deep sea. They’re not just fast and fierce—they’re funny, flashy, and fascinating.
Next time you think of sharks as scary or boring, just remember:
Some of them are basically sea comedians with built-in turbo engines.