What is the presumed main component of the carnivorous diet for *Xiaotingia zhengi*, suggested by its reduced dentition?
Answer
Insects
Although *Xiaotingia* is presumed to have had a carnivorous diet, similar to its association with deinonychosaurs, its specific dentition suggests a specialization toward smaller prey. The summary indicates that insects likely formed the main bulk of its food intake. This specialization is supported by the fact that the dentary bone held fewer than 10 teeth, contrasting with more primitive theropods and aligning with the feeding habits of some basal avians.
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