What capability might be suggested by the femur (84 mm) being longer than the humerus (71 mm) in Xiaotingia?
Answer
Capability to use forelimbs for flapping, possibly limited flight
The relative lengths of the limb bones provide functional insights into how *Xiaotingia* moved. The measurement of the femur at 84 mm and the humerus at 71 mm indicates that the hind limb was longer than the forelimb. This proportion suggests that the animal spent time standing or moving on its hind limbs. Furthermore, this specific ratio, combined with the presence of long forelimbs reminiscent of *Archaeopteryx*, suggests the forelimbs might have been capable of flapping, hinting at the possibility of achieving some limited form of flight.
Related Questions
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