Which Xiphactinus species is designated as the more widely known and larger apex predator?
Answer
*Xiphactinus audax*
*Xiphactinus audax* is recognized as the primary species representing the gigantic apex predator form for which the genus is famous. The largest and most specialized specimens, especially those recovered from the Kansas chalk, are generally classified under *X. audax*. This contrasts with *Xiphactinus vetus*, which, although belonging to the same genus and found in Cretaceous formations like those in Georgia, implies a subtle evolutionary divergence or regional variation in size or morphology across the seaway or time intervals.
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