Do shortfin mako Isurus oxyrinchus hunt dolphins actively?

Abstract

Direct evidence of shark predation on cetaceans is scarce, making it difficult to differentiate between stomach contents that have been scavenged and actively hunted. This study reports the presence of dolphin (Tursiops aduncus and Stenella clymene) remains in the stomachs of three large shortfin makos Isurus oxyrinchus. Detailed analysis suggested active predation in at least one case, supported by premortem bite marks. This observation represents the first record of S. clymene in the diet of a shortfin mako. These findings highlight the opportunistic nature of shortfin mako, which may prey on juvenile dolphins under certain ecological conditions, providing new insights into their feeding behaviour and trophic ecology.