How did Xenoceratops's facial horn arrangement contrast specifically with Pachyrhinosaurus, based on their respective defining traits?

Answer

Xenoceratops maintained a more traditional nasal horn structure, while Pachyrhinosaurus traded the nasal horn for a massive, bony boss on its nose.

When comparing Xenoceratops to Pachyrhinosaurus, both being Centrosaurines, a key difference lies in the primary structure replacing the nasal horn. Pachyrhinosaurus is famously characterized by having its nasal horn replaced by a massive, bony boss situated on its nose, theorized to be covered in keratin for impact. Conversely, Xenoceratops retained a nasal horn structure that aligns more closely with the general Centrosaurine pattern, distinguishing it from Pachyrhinosaurus’s unique nasal prominence. Xenoceratops focused its cranial mass modification on the posterior frill bosses instead of the nasal region.

How did Xenoceratops's facial horn arrangement contrast specifically with Pachyrhinosaurus, based on their respective defining traits?

#Videos

Meet Xenoceratops: Canada's newest horned dinosaur - YouTube

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