There is no scientific argument against Great White sharks being apex predators. The occasional attacks by Orcas do not alter their position at the pinnacle of the food chain. These documented interactions have primarily been observed around the Farallon Islands in northern California. It’s important to note that throughout their range, Orcas do not actively hunt and consume Great Whites. Just as the occasional lion may be killed by hyenas or Nile crocodiles may fall victim to hippos, such instances do not diminish the apex predator status of these species.

When considering Trophic Levels (TL), especially Fractional Trophic Levels, Great Whites remain at the top. With a TL of 4.5 (source: ICES Journal of Marine Science, 56: 707–717. 1999 Article No. jmsc.1999.0489), out of a maximum of 5, they surpass many other “apex predators” such as bears, which have a TL of around 3.5 (for reference, humans have a TL of 2.2).

While some definitions of “apex predator” may imply never being preyed upon or not being eaten by other predators, it is more reasonable to acknowledge that exceptions exist in nature. Using the word “usually” provides a better understanding because rigidly adhering to a rule without considering rare exceptions renders the rule ineffective.

In conclusion, anyone who denies the status of Great White sharks as top predators is simply mistaken.