What justifies assigning *Xenoceratops* its own genus?
Answer
Intergeneric difference
In taxonomy, determining whether a new find represents a new species or a new genus hinges on the magnitude of morphological divergence. Intraspecific variation refers only to differences seen within a single species, such as variations related to age (ontogenetic variation) or sex. The unique configuration of the frill bone structure, the specific shape of the parietal shield, and the configuration of marginal horns in *Xenoceratops* were deemed substantial enough by the describing scientists to represent an intergeneric difference—a variation significant enough to warrant the creation of an entirely new genus, rather than just establishing a new species within an existing one.
Related Questions
To which subfamily is the genus *Xenoceratops* assigned?Where were the remains of *Xenoceratops* formally described from?What does the genus name *Xenoceratops* translate to roughly?Who established the genus *Xenoceratops* in 2012?Which individual does the specific epithet *urmani* honor?Which Order defines *Xenoceratops* as "bird-hipped"?Which subfamily does the famous *Triceratops* belong to?What feature characterizes *Xenoceratops*'s parietal ornamentation?What justifies assigning *Xenoceratops* its own genus?What evolutionary concept does *Xenoceratops*'s ornamentation suggest?What characteristic defines the Suborder Marginocephalia?