How many mako sharks are left in the world

Shortfin mako sharks have a large geographical range and are found widely in tropical to temperate latitudes of all oceans. Everywhere that they live, they are either targeted commercially or captured accidentally in fisheries targeting other species. These sharks are valued for the high quality of their fins and meat. Fishers that use longline fishing gear to target swordfish , yellowfin tuna , and other tunas regularly capture shortfin mako sharks and keep them to sell commercially.

Other fisheries use longline or gillnet fishing gear to specifically target these sharks. The combination of these practices is driving down populations of shortfin makos all around the world, and scientists now believe them to be vulnerable to extinction.

This has lead to a Wedgefish and giant guitarfish, often grouped together as rhino rays, are also heavily targeted for the fin soup delicacy. They are listed as the most threatened family of marine fish, due to the fact that all bar one of the 16 species are critically endangered. It is thought that two species of wedgefish may have already been commercially overfished to the point of extinction. While countries voted in favour of the move, 40 were opposed, including Iceland, Japan, Malaysia, China and New Zealand.

This is the power of a movement for a healthy and abundant ocean. An international rebuilding plan is being developed for the stock. Gear used to harvest Atlantic shortfin mako sharks does not contact the ocean floor and has no impact on habitat. NOAA Fisheries conducts shark research in the Northeast , studying shark life history and performing long-term monitoring activities essential for stock assessment and management.

Atlantic Shortfin Mako Shark Isurus oxyrinchus. Mako shark, Blue pointer, Bonito shark, Atlantic mako shark. Quick Facts Lifespan. Population Significantly below target population levels. Fishing Rate Reduced to end overfishing. Habitat Impacts Gear used to harvest Atlantic shortfin mako sharks does not contact the ocean floor and has no impact on habitat.

Bycatch Regulations are in place to minimize bycatch. Shortfin mako sharks have very pointed snouts and long gill slits. Shortfin mako sharks are easily confused with longfin makos.

Longfin makos have much longer pectoral fins and larger eyes, and the area on their snout is darker. Shortfin mako sharks grow slowly, reach up to 13 feet long, and can live to be over 30 years old. The closely-related longfin mako may be in a similar position in Australia but the report notes there was very limited information available. The proposal has been put forward by Mexico, the EU and 27 other countries.

If a two thirds majority of all governments voting at the meeting is reached, global trade in the species must be regulated at sustainable levels.