In terms of evolutionary placement, what is *Xiongguanlong* recognized as within Tyrannosauroidea?
Answer
An advanced basal tyrannosauroid, often serving as the sister taxon to the clade containing *Appalachiosaurus* and the Tyrannosauridae.
*Xiongguanlong* occupies a highly significant node on the tyrannosauroid family tree. It is classified as an advanced basal tyrannosauroid, meaning it has acquired several sophisticated features characteristic of later forms but is situated just outside the core family, Tyrannosauridae. Its specific placement is often defined by its relationship to other groups; it is recognized as being the sister taxon—the closest relative—to the branch that includes *Appalachiosaurus* and the entire Tyrannosauridae family, making it a crucial link in understanding the origins of derived tyrannosaurs.
Related Questions
What geographical feature inspired the specific epithet *baimoensis* of *Xiongguanlong*?To which geological period do the sediments containing *Xiongguanlong* date?How does the skull morphology of *Xiongguanlong* contrast with derived Late Cretaceous tyrannosaurids?What unusual characteristic is noted regarding the premaxillary teeth of *Xiongguanlong*?In terms of evolutionary placement, what is *Xiongguanlong* recognized as within Tyrannosauroidea?What specific major jaw component was notably lacking from the holotype specimen of *Xiongguanlong*?Where does the estimated size of *Xiongguanlong* (170 to 300 kg) place it evolutionarily?What feature was noted about the vertebrae of *Xiongguanlong* compared to other basal tyrannosauroids?What does the geological setting of *Xiongguanlong* in Early Cretaceous Gansu suggest about tyrannosauroid evolution?Which contemporary genus shares a muzzle morphology reminiscent of *Xiongguanlong*'s long skull?