Isurus is a genus of mackerel sharks in the family Lamnidae, commonly known as the mako sharks. There are two living species, the common shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) and the rare longfin mako shark (Isurus paucus), and several extinct species known from fossils. They range in length from 9 to 15 feet, and have an average weight of 1,750 lbs. The Lamnidae family also includes sharks such as the great white shark and porbeagle.
[edit] Behavior
Mako sharks, a poorly studied genus, are more intelligent than other sharks. In 1998, a group of shark biologists and researchers befriended a shortfin mako shark for several hours, then attempted to touch its snout while it was feeding. At first it rolled its eyes back protectively, but after further attempts by the crew, it did not retreat or roll its eye. The researchers were funded by the Discovery Channel for an episode in Shark Week, entitled "Mako shark, A Smart Shark?".
[edit] Species
The genus contains two living species:
Fossil species include Cosmopolitodus hastalis, I. retroflexus, I. desori, I. escheri, and Cosmopolitodus planus.[2][3]
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- Tony Ayling & Geoffrey Cox, Collins Guide to the Sea Fishes of New Zealand, (William Collins Publishers Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand 1982) ISBN 0-00-216987-8
