What defining characteristic related to food processing did Fabrosaurids like *Xiaosaurus* generally lack?
Answer
Cheek pouches for food storage
When classified within the proposed family Fabrosauridae, *Xiaosaurus* is identified as representing a very basal, or early diverging, stage of ornithischian evolution. A critical distinction highlighted for this early group is the absence of specialized features common in later, more derived herbivores. Specifically, fabrosaurids, including *Xiaosaurus*, did not possess cheek pouches, which are muscular structures used by later ornithischians, such as the Hadrosauridae, for efficient storage and processing of bulk vegetation. This lack suggests *Xiaosaurus* relied on a simpler digestive strategy to cope with the tough Jurassic foliage, perhaps depending more on rapid grazing and subsequent fermentation.
Related Questions
What is the literal translation of the genus name *Xiaosaurus*?Which specific geological formation yielded the initial fossil remains of *Xiaosaurus*?What key anatomical feature defines the Order Ornithischia, placing *Xiaosaurus* within the 'bird-hipped' lineage?What defining characteristic related to food processing did Fabrosaurids like *Xiaosaurus* generally lack?During which specific time interval is the existence of *Xiaosaurus* generally placed?What scientific classification issue arises from the limited fossil material known for *Xiaosaurus*?Who formally named the genus *Xiaosaurus* and in what year was the genus established?How is the primary mode of locomotion described for the small ornithischian *Xiaosaurus*?What is the specific geographical feature honored by the species name *dashanpensis*?What characterizes the teeth of *Xiaosaurus*, reflecting its herbivorous diet?