Science

The Great White Shark's New Rival: Orcas Take the Throne in Ocean Predation

2025-07-06

Author: Ting

A Shift in Ocean Power Dynamics

Once hailed as the apex predator of the sea, the great white shark is now confronting an unprecedented threat: the orca. In Australia, a shocking discovery has revealed that these intelligent marine mammals have begun to hunt great whites, putting a dramatic twist on the dynamics of ocean predation.

The Startling Evidence: A Grim Discovery

In October 2023, a 4.7-meter great white shark was found dead on the shores of Portland, Victoria, sparking a frenzy of investigation among marine biologists. The shark had been brutally mutilated, with its liver and other vital organs missing. Forensic tests unveiled a 50-centimeter gash near its pectoral fin, containing DNA linked directly to orcas.

Witnesses reported seeing a group of orcas, including the infamous hunters Bent Tip and Ripple, prowling the same area just days prior. This marks the first documented account in Australia of orcas preying on great whites, underscoring a growing trend observed globally.

Orcas: Masters of Strategic Hunting

Orcas, often dubbed 'killer whales,' are not only known for their immense strength but also their sophisticated hunting strategies. They are adept at targeting specific, nutrient-rich parts of their prey, particularly the liver of great whites, leaving the rest of the carcass almost intact.

This surgical precision in hunting mirrors human practices, reflecting a dangerous level of intelligence. Similar cases have emerged in South Africa, where orcas have also been spotted skillfully dissecting great white sharks for their highly nutritious livers.

What This Means for Great Whites

The rise of orcas as a significant threat to great white sharks could lead to dire consequences for shark populations. For instance, in South Africa, the presence of orcas has been linked to a drastic decrease in shark sightings, suggesting that these formidable predators are altering the very habitats that great whites previously dominated.

As orcas continue to expand their hunting grounds, Australian waters may soon see similar trends, potentially driving great whites away from crucial feeding areas. The reign of the great white shark is being challenged, and the balance of oceanic life hangs in the balance.