Which shark is the fastest swimming species?

The shortfin mako shark is the fastest swimming shark species. It can reach bursts of about 74 km/h (46 mph), making it one of the fastest fish in the ocean.

Its streamlined, torpedo-shaped body, pointed snout, powerful crescent-shaped tail, and unusually warm muscles help it accelerate quickly. As a member of the mackerel shark family, it is related to the great white, porbeagle, and salmon sharks, but it is built for greater speed.

The name “mako” comes from Māori and can refer to both the shark and its tooth. Shortfin makos live in tropical and temperate oceans worldwide and often travel long distances while hunting squid, tuna, mackerel, and other fast-moving prey.

A common mix-up is confusing the shortfin mako with the longfin mako. Both belong to the genus Isurus, but the longfin mako is slower and less commonly encountered. The shortfin mako is also classified as Endangered by the IUCN.