ScienceAugust 15, 2026
shortfin
SHORT-fin
Definition
A specific species of mackerel shark, known scientifically as Isurus oxyrinchus, characterized by relatively short pectoral fins compared to its longfin relative.
Etymology
The word is a compound formation derived from the Old English 'sceort' (short) and 'fin', referring to the anatomy of the shark species which distinguishes it from the longfin mako.
In the news
In this article, the shortfin mako shark is mentioned as one of several species being fitted with electronic tags to monitor ocean temperature and salinity, aiding in hurricane intensity forecasting.
Great White Sharks Know When a Storm Is Coming. Here’s What That Means for Humans.
Read the full article ↗VICE