The correct spelling of the species name of the shark commonly known as the "shortfin mako" is Isurus paucus. The first word, Isurus, is spelled with the letter "i" followed by the letters "s," "u," "r," "u," and "s." The second word, Paucus, is spelled with the letters "p," "a," "u," "c," "u," and "s." In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈaɪsərəs ˈpɔːkəs/. This species of shark is known for its speed and agility, and is a popular game fish for anglers.
Isurus paucus, commonly known as the longfin mako shark, is a species of large, fast-swimming cartilaginous fish belonging to the Lamnidae family. This species is recognizable by its elongated pectoral fins, which are considerably longer than those of its close relative, the shortfin mako shark (Isurus oxyrinchus).
With a streamlined body and a distinctive conical snout, the longfin mako shark is renowned for its incredible speed and agility in the water. It can reach lengths of up to 4 meters (13 feet) and can swim at speeds of up to 31 miles per hour (50 kilometers per hour). Typically inhabiting deep offshore waters, this apex predator is known for its powerful jaws armed with sharp, serrated teeth, enabling it to efficiently capture and consume a variety of prey, including fish, squid, and even other sharks.
The longfin mako shark is found in temperate and tropical seas worldwide, primarily in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. It is a highly migratory species, known to travel long distances across ocean basins. However, due to its vulnerability to overfishing and incidental catch in commercial fishing gear, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently lists the longfin mako shark as a vulnerable species.
As an apex predator, the longfin mako shark plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems by regulating the population sizes of its prey species. Understanding and conserving this unique and remarkable creature is essential for ensuring the health and balance of our oceans.
The word "Isurus paucus" is a scientific name that consists of two parts: the genus, Isurus, and the species, paucus.
The genus, Isurus, comes from the Greek words "isos", meaning equal or same, and "oura", meaning tail or rear. Isurus refers to the similarity of the tail of the genus to that of a shark.
The species name, paucus, is a Latin word that means few or rare. It is believed to refer to the fact that this species of shark, sometimes known as the longfin mako, is less abundant and less frequently encountered compared to other species of mako sharks.