Dead mako shark found near Caesarea
(Video: Nature and Parks Authority)
A mako shark, also known as the blue pointer, was found dead Tuesday overnight on a beach near Caesarea.
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A ranger from the Israeli Nature and Parks Authority transferred the carcass of the highly endangered shark to experts to examine the circumstances of death.
The mako shark is considered one of the fastest sharks in the world. It lives in waters, reaching depths of up to 400 meters (1312 feet). In its natural habitat, the mako shark feeds on fish, as well as krill and other small marine organisms. Occasionally, remnants of sea otters and even dolphin remains can be found in its stomach.
The mako shark can reach lengths of up to four meters (13 feet) and is considered a potentially dangerous shark to humans. The shark is equipped with sharp and exceptionally thin teeth.
Like many shark species worldwide, mako sharks suffer from population decline due to accidental entanglement in fishing nets and the demand for shark fins for culinary purposes. Most predatory sharks play an important role in the marine food chain.