What functional adaptation is theorized for the highly fused ankle structure in *Xenotarsosaurus*?
Answer
Allowing for a more powerful push-off during locomotion
The extreme anatomical modification observed in the ankle—the complete fusion of the astragalus and calcaneum, which then connected to the widened tibia—suggests a specialized mechanical design optimized for terrestrial movement. This rigid configuration implies that the lower leg apparatus was built for stability and transferring maximum force efficiently. Scientists hypothesize that such a stiff ankle joint would have enabled the animal to generate an incredibly forceful and powerful push-off when running or lunging during predatory strikes against prey, enhancing its speed and impact.
Related Questions
What does the generic name *Xenotarsosaurus* translate to based on its Greek roots?Which paleontologist was honored by the specific name *bonapartei*?In which Argentine geological feature were the *Xenotarsosaurus* fossils primarily discovered?What two specific bones in the *Xenotarsosaurus* ankle were found completely fused in the type specimen?What functional adaptation is theorized for the highly fused ankle structure in *Xenotarsosaurus*?What two types of skeletal elements constitute the limited known type specimens of *Xenotarsosaurus*?Which titanosaurian sauropod is mentioned as existing within the same ancient South American ecosystem as *Xenotarsosaurus*?What was the precisely measured length of the recovered right hind limb femur of *Xenotarsosaurus*?What alternative classification was proposed around 1989 for *Xenotarsosaurus* due to taxonomic uncertainty?What is the higher weight estimate cited in the comparative table for *Xenotarsosaurus*?The initial assignment of *Xenotarsosaurus* to Abelisauridae was based on hind leg similarities with which specific relative?What was the lower estimated length provided for *Xenotarsosaurus* in the size comparison table?