What did the moderate size and carnivore status of Xenotarsosaurus suggest about its predatory role?

Answer

Its strategy likely involved hunting mid-sized prey or significant scavenging

Given that *Xenotarsosaurus* is estimated to have been around 5 to 6 meters long and classified as a carnivore, its moderate size suggests it was likely not the absolute largest apex predator in its environment, which may have included other colossal fauna. Therefore, its predatory strategy would logically focus on the most sustainable food source available for its build, which translates to targeting mid-sized prey species. Furthermore, the text notes that interpretations sometimes connect it to opportunistic feeding, implying a significant role as a scavenger, perhaps exploiting the remains left by much larger hunters or naturally deceased large animals like sauropods.

What did the moderate size and carnivore status of Xenotarsosaurus suggest about its predatory role?
fossilreptiledinosauranimalia