How was the specialized, parrot-like beak of Xenoceratops designed to function regarding tough vegetation?
Answer
For cutting and shearing tough vegetation
The parrot-like beak of Xenoceratops was a highly adapted tool specifically designed for the mechanical processing of its diet. Its primary function was to efficiently cut and shear tough vegetation that constituted its daily intake. This action was crucial for preparing the bulk foliage—such as ferns and cattails—before it was swallowed. This mechanical initial breakdown by the beak complemented the chemical breakdown process that occurred later via fermentation within the dinosaur's massive gut.
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