You hear a lot of chat regarding some of the fastest fish in the sea, with talk of 60, 70, 80mph marlin and sailfish. However recent evidence suggests that it’s not physically possible for fish to approach these speeds.

As well as exerting a large amount of energy, the actual tail beat of the fish at these kinds of speeds would cause cavitation bubbles in the water. These bubbles create a vapour film around the fins of the fish which limits their speed and can even cause damage to the tissues of the animal itself.

The Shortfin Mako, a member of the mackerel shark family, is capable of swimming at 31 mph, making it the fastest shark in the sea. A combination of beautifully arranged muscles, a marvellous net of blood vessels, and some of the finest streamlining nature has to offer, allows the mako to chase down swordfish, tuna, and even other sharks almost effortlessly.

Reaching over 4m in length and weighing over half a tonne, the Shortfin Mako is like the sporty hatchback version of the Great White.

You can even see them in the waters around Britain if you’re incredibly lucky, but you certainly wouldn’t have anything to worry about should you meet one.

Although they may look fearsome, those sharp pointed teeth are designed to impale and secure prey (mainly fish) in one bite. And thanks to the incredible system of blood vessels surrounding the core muscle, eyes and brain, the Shortfin Mako doesn’t lose its internal body heat to the cold water around it, allowing it to stay functioning at above average levels, even down to the chilly depths of 150m.

Fast, feisty and a beautiful fish, the Shortfin Mako really is the Lamborghini of the shark world.