What geographical feature inspired the specific epithet *baimoensis* of *Xiongguanlong*?
Answer
The discovery location derived from *bai mo*, meaning "White Ghost," named for the "White Ghost Castle" rock formation.
The specific epithet *baimoensis* directly relates to the geological surroundings of the fossil discovery. It is derived from the term *bai mo*, which translates to "white ghost." This name was chosen specifically because the fossils were unearthed near a distinctive local landmark known as the "White Ghost Castle" rock formation. This naming convention serves to geographically anchor the species to the precise spot in Gansu Province where the holotype material was recovered, distinguishing it from other tyrannosauroids discovered elsewhere.
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?