What group classification of bony fish does *Xiphactinus* belong to, linking it to modern species?
Answer
Teleosts
*Xiphactinus* is classified within the group known as teleosts, or bony fish. This classification places it on a direct evolutionary lineage that spans over 85 million years, connecting this massive extinct predator to the vast majority of fish species alive today, such as tuna and trout. Although *Xiphactinus* was vastly larger and demonstrated ferocity unmatched by most modern bony fish, its fundamental structure places it within this successful and enduring group of vertebrates. Paleontologists utilize this connection to trace the development and diversity scale achievable within this group over geological time.
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