Shortfin mako sharks are among the fastest fish in the ocean, yet they are threatened by targeted finning and incidental bycatch in the global tuna and swordfish fisheries.
Finning is one of the most welfare-destructive fishing practices: fins are sliced off conscious animals that are then discarded alive. Even when fins are removed after death, the capture process causes extreme stress and often prolonged injury. Bycatch makos experience the same suffering as targeted fish. The mako combines severe welfare harm with critical conservation status, making it a priority species for reform.