World's fastest shark speeding toward extinction

The shortfin mako is at risk due to failure to halt overfishing, with EU 'most to blame'

The world's fastest shark may be swimming towards disaster after a major fisheries body failed to address continued overfishing of the highly vulnerable species, conservationists have warned.

The shortfin mako - which can reach speeds of up to 43mph - is fished worldwide but is not subject to any international fishing quotas. It is considered exceptionally vulnerable in the North Atlantic, where scientists have recommended all landings be reduced by at least two-thirds to prevent overfishing.