The Mako shark, encompassing the Shortfin Mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) and the Longfin Mako (Isurus paucus), is an apex predator recognized globally for its immense speed and strength. These highly capable oceanic hunters possess physical attributes that place them among the most formidable creatures in the marine environment. This assessment aims to objectively analyze the actual danger these sharks pose to humans, focusing on documented behavior, statistics, and species-specific distinctions.
Defining the Mako Threat Profile
The Mako shark’s physical design establishes its capacity to inflict serious harm, built for explosive speed and efficient hunting. Shortfin Makos are widely considered the fastest shark species in the ocean, capable of reaching burst speeds of up to 45 miles per hour (74 km/h). This velocity allows them to pursue and capture fast-moving prey like tuna and swordfish. They are also large animals, with adults commonly reaching lengths of 10 to 12 feet and weighing over 1,000 pounds.
The sharkâs dentition presents a distinct danger, featuring long, slender teeth with smooth edges. These teeth are designed not for shearing, but for grasping and holding struggling, slippery prey, which results in deep, penetrating wounds. Mako sharks are naturally active, wide-ranging pelagic creatures that sometimes exhibit investigatory behavior. This temperament, combined with their raw power and speed, means that while they generally avoid humans, a defensive or exploratory interaction carries a significant potential for injury. They are also known for their incredible leaping ability, sometimes breaching 20 feet out of the water, a behavior often seen when they are hooked.
Analysis of Documented Attacks
Despite their formidable profile, Mako shark attacks on humans are exceedingly rare, especially when compared to other large shark species. The International Shark Attack File (ISAF) records a low number of confirmed, unprovoked attacks by Mako sharks on humans globally. Specifically, ISAF data indicates only 10 confirmed unprovoked attacks by Shortfin Makos since the 1500s, with a single documented fatality. The overall total of Mako-related incidents, however, is higher, with some databases listing approximately 56 total incidents, including both unprovoked and provoked cases.
It is important to differentiate between these two categories. Unprovoked attacks occur when the shark initiates contact in its natural habitat without human influence. The majority of reported Mako incidents are classified as provoked, often involving spearfishing, the handling of hooked sharks, or the shark being harassed. Makos frequently become aggressive when caught on a fishing line or brought onto a boat, leading to defensive bites on anglers or boat damage. These scenarios represent reactions to direct human action, not predatory hunting of humans.
Distinguishing Between Shortfin and Longfin Mako
The term “Mako shark” refers to two distinct species, the Shortfin Mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) and the Longfin Mako (Isurus paucus). This distinction is important for risk assessment. The Shortfin Mako is the species responsible for nearly all documented human interactions. Its wide geographic range and tendency to occupy waters closer to the surface increase its overlap with human activity. This species is generally more robust and possesses the higher speed for which Makos are known.
The Longfin Mako is a deeper-water, pelagic species that is less frequently encountered. It has a more slender build and is typically slower and less active than its shortfin relative. Due to its preference for offshore, deep-ocean habitats, there are virtually no documented cases of the Longfin Mako being involved in attacks on humans. Therefore, the focus remains almost entirely on the Shortfin Mako when considering the potential for interaction.
Reducing the Likelihood of Interaction
The rarity of unprovoked attacks suggests that risk management is centered on avoiding specific high-risk activities in Mako habitats. A primary point of concern is spearfishing, as the struggling fish and blood released into the water can attract Makos and trigger a feeding response. Divers and fishers should immediately secure or remove any speared fish from the water to prevent the shark from associating humans with an easy meal.
Anglers should exercise caution when a Mako is hooked, as this is when the shark is most likely to display aggressive, defensive behavior. Cleaning fish or disposing of fish entrails near swimming or diving areas can also attract Makos to a location where they would otherwise not be present. Maintaining a respectful distance and avoiding actions that could be interpreted as a food source are the most effective strategies for minimizing unwanted interaction.