Blue shark

How it lives

Blue sharks live in open water from the surface to about 350 m and prefer cooler water of about 12 to 20 degrees C. Males mature at about 4 to 6 years and females at about 5 to 7 years. Females give birth to live young after 9 to 12 months, with litters averaging about 30 pups and up to about 80. Lifespan is believed to be more than 20 years, though the maximum is uncertain.

Where it goes

Blue sharks are highly migratory and are found in most temperate and tropical oceans, from about 60 degrees north to 50 degrees south. They travel long distances across ocean basins and follow seasonal patterns, so where one appears can change through the year.

We only draw a journey on the map when scientists have tracked it or clearly documented it. For this animal we have not found one yet.

Populations

Globally Near Threatened (IUCN, 2019 publication). CMS notes it is Near Threatened in European waters and Critically Endangered in the Mediterranean. Populations have fallen below historic levels. It is listed on CMS Appendix II (since 2017) and CITES Appendix II. Blue shark fins are among the most heavily traded in the Hong Kong fin trade.