What geological period dates the Xiaosaurus fossils found in the Lufeng Formation?
Answer
Lower Jurassic period
The remains of *Xiaosaurus* are dated to the Lower Jurassic period. This placement is highly significant because it situates this dinosaur near the very dawn of the Mesozoic Era when dinosaurs were establishing their ecological dominance across the globe. Being an inhabitant of the Lower Jurassic means that *Xiaosaurus* represents one of the earlier forms of the Ornithischia group. Its primitive anatomy, lacking the heavy specializations seen later, provides a vital snapshot of what the bird-hipped body plan looked like just before major evolutionary pressures drove the development of traits like heavy armor, massive size, or elaborate head ornamentation in its descendants.
Related Questions
What is the approximate typical length estimate given for an adult Xiaosaurus?From which specific geological location were Xiaosaurus specimens recovered?What critical pelvic feature defines Xiaosaurus's placement within the Ornithischia?What geological period dates the Xiaosaurus fossils found in the Lufeng Formation?What mode of locomotion is suggested for the physical structure of Xiaosaurus's limbs?How many incomplete skeletons form the basis for the known anatomy of Xiaosaurus?Who formally named and described the genus Xiaosaurus in 1973?Which ornithischian group is Xiaosaurus tentatively assigned to, leading to taxonomic debate?What is the meaning of the name Xiaosaurus?Compared to later ceratopsians or ankylosaurs, what key aspect characterizes the primitive physical makeup of Xiaosaurus?