Their value to humans may vary according to species, geographic location, and management status. Along the Northeast coast, species such as blue sharks, makos, sand tiger sharks, and dogfishes have a market history. Blue sharks have little value as food fish, but historically were captured for their fins. The practice of finning is now banned, and blue sharks are fished primarily for sport. Growing to 12 feet or more, these sharks are distinguished by their bright blue metallic-hued color and very long, narrow, pointed pectoral fins.
Makos have both commercial and recreational significance.
The shortfin mako is the premier species for shark meat. And because it is one of the fastest fishes, and a fighter capable of leaping several times its length from the water, it is highly prized as a gamefish. The less familiar longfin mako is not so actively targeted. Similar in appearance, the two makos were not recognized as separate species until 1966. The primary difference is the length of their pectoral fins.