The Mako is a fairly large species of shark. An average adult specimen will measure around 3.2 m (10 ft) in length and weigh from 60–135 kg (132–298 lb). Females are larger than males.The Mako is cylindrical in shape, with a vertically-elongated tail for speedy swimming. The colour is brilliant metallic blue on the back and white on the belly. The line of demarcation between blue and white on the body is distinct. The underside of the snout and the area around the mouth are white. Larger specimens tend to possess darker coloration that extends onto parts of the body that would be white in smaller individuals. The juvenile mako differs in that it has a clear blackish stain on the tip of the snout.

This species can be found from the surface down to depths of 150 m, normally far from land though occasionally closer to shore, around islands or inlets. One of only four known endothermic ("warm blooded") sharks, it is seldom found in waters colder than 16 °C.

this shark species feeds mainly upon cephalopods(squid etc), bony fishes including mackerels, tunas, bonitos, and swordfish, but it may also eat other sharks, porpoises, sea turtles, and seabirds. They hunt by lunging vertically up and tearing off chunks of their preys' flanks and fins. Makos swim below their prey, so they can see what is above and have a high probability of reaching prey before it notices.

The shortfin mako shark is a yolk-sac ovoviviparous shark, giving birth to live young. Developing embryos feed on unfertilized eggs within the uterus during the 15 to 18 month gestation period - this is called (oophagy) (i.e. egg-eating). Up to 18 young are born at about 70 cm. Fastest of all sharks, can leap out of the water. Dangerous if provoked. Prized as a game fish. But classed as vulnerable.

Last, PR; & Stevens JD (2012). Sharks and Rays of Australia — Second Edition. Australia: CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation). "More oceanic sharks added to the IUCN Red List" (Press release). IUCN. 2007-02-22. Retrieved 2007-02-25. "The global threat status was heightened for shortfin mako, a favorite shark among commercial and recreational fishermen, from Near Threatened in 2000 to Vulnerable today."