The shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) exhibits remarkable thermoregulation capabilities, allowing its body temperature to differ from the surrounding water by up to 14°C. This ability enhances its predatory efficiency and daily activities, a mechanism previously undocumented in sharks globally.
Researchers from Taiwan's Fisheries Research Institute, in collaboration with Japanese universities and Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, have employed biotelemetry to analyze the behavioral characteristics and thermoregulatory mechanisms of the shortfin mako shark. The study revealed that while the shortfin mako shark is classified as an ectothermic species, it can maintain a significant temperature differential from its environment, which is advantageous for hunting and other activities.
Research Findings
- The shortfin mako shark prefers surface water temperatures between 14°C and 31°C.
- It exhibits a continuous vertical movement pattern both day and night, with more extensive vertical movements during the day.
- The sharks typically inhabit depths ranging from the surface down to 300 meters, favoring areas around 100 to 200 meters at night.
- Despite being ectothermic, their muscle development allows them to dive to depths of 1000 meters with only a slight drop in body temperature (2-4°C) even when surrounding water temperatures are as low as 4-5°C.
Conservation Status
According to Dr. Jiang Wei-Chuan from the Fisheries Research Institute, the shortfin mako shark is a primary target for longline and drift net fisheries in Taiwan's coastal waters. However, it is currently listed as endangered (EN) on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. This status highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts focused on understanding their movement behaviors and habitat preferences.
Technological Advances in Research
The development of electronic monitoring devices has significantly improved data collection on these pelagic species. These devices can now be attached to various species to record detailed information about their movement patterns, habitat depth preferences, and temperature variations over time. This advancement is crucial for understanding the life history traits of oceanic fish species.
Conclusion
This collaborative research not only contributes valuable insights into the behavioral ecology of shortfin mako sharks but also underscores the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect this vulnerable species in light of environmental changes.
