How does the tail length of Xiaotingia generally compare to many other theropods of a similar evolutionary grade?
Answer
Somewhat shorter
Regarding its overall posture, Xiaotingia is described as having a relatively long neck, but its tail is noted to be somewhat shorter when compared to many other theropods that fall into a similar evolutionary grade or developmental level. While the creature was slender and small, this particular dimension, when considered alongside features like its leg ratios, contributes to the complex anatomical mosaic that makes its precise phylogenetic placement debatable.
Related Questions
What specific geological age characterized the Late Jurassic epoch when Xiaotingia zhengi existed?In which present-day Chinese province were the remains of Xiaotingia zhengi unearthed?Within which major clade is Xiaotingia specifically nested, placing it among the most bird-like dinosaurs?What characteristic leg bone proportion in Xiaotingia suggests an adaptation for running speed?Which family do some modern phylogenetic studies suggest Xiaotingia belongs within or directly alongside, grouping it with Anchiornis?What is the catalog designation for the holotype specimen of Xiaotingia zhengi used by scientists?How does the tail length of Xiaotingia generally compare to many other theropods of a similar evolutionary grade?Xiaotingia's proximity places it near the foundational split of which clade encompassing birds and dinosaurs more closely related to birds than Ornithomimosaurs?What complexity regarding trait acquisition does the placement of Xiaotingia suggest about features considered 'advanced' for bird origins?What does the significance of Xiaotingia lie more in, concerning its contribution to evolutionary studies?