Fish
Blue Shark
Prionace glauca
Far out over the deep Atlantic, a blue shark glides beneath the surface, a slim indigo torpedo on a journey that may take it across an entire ocean.
Overview
The blue shark, Prionace glauca, is a Near Threatened shark of temperate and tropical oceans around the world. Its slender build, vivid colour, and huge migrations make it one of the most recognisable sharks, and its vast catch makes it one of the most heavily fished.
The most fished shark
Because blue sharks live in the open sea where longlines are set for tuna and swordfish, enormous numbers are caught as bycatch each year, and many are finned.
Status
Near Threatened, with populations declining in many regions.
Blue Shark: common questions
Why is the blue shark blue?
Its vivid indigo-blue back and bright blue sides help it to blend with the open ocean when seen from above.
How many pups does a blue shark have?
It gives birth to live young in large litters, often many dozens of pups at a time.
Is the blue shark dangerous?
It is rarely a danger to people, though like any large shark it should be treated with respect.
Where is the blue shark found?
It lives in temperate and tropical oceans worldwide, and visits the waters of south-west Britain and Ireland in summer.