The Mako Shark and its Mighty Tooth
Mako sharks are apex predators of the ocean, known for their impressive speed and agility. These sharks can reach speeds of up to 31 miles per hour in short bursts. They are also known to jump more than 30 feet out of the water. Their physical capabilities are truly stunning.
But it’s not just their speed and jumping ability that captivates people. The mako shark tooth, both modern and fossilized, holds a special allure. Collectors treasure them, and researchers study them to better understand the evolution of these magnificent creatures.
This article dives into the world of the mako shark tooth, exploring its morphology, evolutionary history, and how to identify both modern and extinct forms. We’ll also touch on the value of various teeth, so you can better understand this fascinating area.
Mako shark facts: A deeper dive into the Isurus genus
Let’s take a closer look at the mako shark and its place in the ocean ecosystem.
Taxonomy and species
The Isurus genus is part of the Lamniformes order and the Lamnidae family. You might be interested to know that great white sharks also belong to the Lamnidae family.
There are two mako species still swimming the oceans today: the shortfin mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) and the longfin mako (Isurus paucus).
Distribution, diet, and size
Mako sharks can be found in offshore waters all over the world. They like to eat mostly fish, smaller sharks, and squid.
Shortfin makos generally measure from 8 to 13 feet long. The longest longfin mako ever measured was 13.7 feet long.
Conservation status
Unfortunately, mako sharks are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. That means that without conservation efforts, they could become endangered.
Mako shark tooth morphology: A closer look
Mako shark teeth are instantly recognizable, but let’s take a deeper dive into what makes them so unique.
General characteristics
Mako teeth are typically long, slender, and sharply pointed, perfectly designed for grasping and holding onto fast-moving prey. They lack the serrations you often see on the teeth of other sharks, giving them a smooth cutting edge. The shape can vary slightly depending on where the tooth is located in the jaw. For example, the teeth at the front of the jaw are generally more symmetrical, while those towards the sides might be slightly angled.
Shortfin Mako (Isurus oxyrinchus) tooth morphology
Shortfin mako teeth are particularly well-adapted for their diet of fish, squid, and even marine mammals. These teeth are relatively long and curved, allowing them to effectively penetrate and grip slippery prey. Their smooth edges are ideal for delivering clean, precise bites. The morphology of the teeth reflects their hunting style, which involves pursuing and overpowering fast-moving targets.
Longfin Mako (Isurus paucus) tooth morphology
While less common, the longfin mako also has distinctive teeth. They’re similar to the shortfin mako’s, but some experts note subtle differences in the tooth shape and size. More research is needed to fully understand how the longfin mako’s tooth morphology relates to its specific diet and hunting behaviors.
Mako shark evolution and the fossil record
The evolutionary history of mako sharks is complex, and there’s quite a bit of debate about how these sharks evolved. The Isurus genus (the genus that contains modern makos) dates back to the Paleocene epoch, which means makos have been around for a long time.
Key fossil species
One potential ancestor to the mako shark is Isurolamna, which lived around 60 million years ago. Another possible precursor is Macrorhizodus praecursor, dating back about 55 million years.
A lot of what we know about the evolution of mako sharks comes from studying isolated teeth. Teeth are hard and tend to fossilize well, but they can make it difficult to piece together the whole evolutionary story.
The Isurus oxyrinchus / Isurus desori debate
Shortfin mako teeth are very similar to the teeth of an extinct species called Isurus desori. So similar, in fact, that some scientists think they might be the same species. The debate continues, highlighting how tricky it can be to trace the lineage of these incredible sharks using only fossil teeth.
Identifying mako shark fossils: A practical guide
So, you think you’ve found a mako shark tooth? Here’s what to look for.
Distinguishing mako shark teeth from other shark teeth
Mako teeth are different from other shark teeth. When you’re trying to identify a shark tooth, pay attention to the tooth’s shape and size, as well as any serrations along the cutting edge.
Common mako shark fossil locations
Mako shark fossils are often found in specific geological formations. Some of the more well-known spots include the Calvert Formation and the PCS mine in Aurora, North Carolina.
A word of caution: Misidentification
It’s easy to make a mistake when identifying shark teeth. Be careful not to mistake an extinct white shark tooth for a mako tooth. As fossil expert Bretton Kent has said, “The wide, triangular teeth that are often called “makos” by amateur fossil collectors are actually extinct White Sharks.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are mako shark teeth rare?
While not the rarest shark teeth out there, mako shark teeth are considered less common than teeth from species like the sand tiger or lemon shark. Finding a perfectly preserved mako tooth, especially a larger one, is definitely a prize for any shark tooth hunter. The scarcity depends on location, preservation conditions, and the specific type of mako tooth (e.g., upper vs. lower jaw).
How old are fossilized mako shark teeth?
Fossilized mako shark teeth can range in age from relatively recent (a few thousand years old) to millions of years old. The exact age depends on the geological layer in which they are found. Teeth from the extinct broad-toothed mako ( Isurus hastalis ) can date back to the Miocene epoch (around 23 to 5 million years ago), while teeth from modern shortfin and longfin makos are, of course, much younger.
What does the mako shark tooth mean spiritually?
Spiritually, shark teeth, including mako teeth, often symbolize strength, power, protection, and adaptability. They can represent overcoming challenges and embracing one’s inner hunter, encouraging you to pursue your goals with focus and determination. The mako’s speed and agility can add another layer of meaning, signifying quick thinking and decisive action in the face of adversity. Some also view them as symbols of good luck and resilience.
Summary
Mako shark teeth are fascinating fossils that offer a glimpse into the evolution of these apex predators. Their distinctive, slender shape and lack of serrations help distinguish them from other shark teeth, while subtle variations can help paleontologists track the changes in mako shark species over millions of years.
Ongoing research, particularly using advanced imaging techniques, continues to refine our understanding of mako shark evolution and the relationships between different species.
Whether you’re a seasoned fossil hunter or a casual collector, it’s important to practice responsible collecting and strive for accurate identification. By respecting the fossil record and sharing knowledge, we can all contribute to a greater appreciation of these incredible creatures and their place in Earth’s history.
The enduring appeal of mako sharks, both living and extinct, lies in their power, speed, and evolutionary success. Their fossilized teeth serve as a tangible link to a prehistoric world, sparking our curiosity and reminding us of the vastness of geological time.