What geological feature, now Kansas, was submerged beneath the Western Interior Seaway during the life of *Xiphactinus*?
Answer
Western Interior Seaway
The existence and fossil record of *Xiphactinus* are intrinsically linked to the Western Interior Seaway (WIS). This massive, shallow inland sea separated the eastern and western parts of North America during the Late Cretaceous period. The seabed of this seaway, particularly in what is now the central United States, specifically Kansas, accumulated fine muds that were highly conducive to the exceptional preservation of marine life, including the remains of this apex predator. The WIS environment supported the rich biodiversity necessary to sustain such a large carnivorous fish population.
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