What specific skeletal element constitutes the holotype specimen of Xenoposeidon proneneukus?
Answer
Cervical vertebra
The current knowledge base regarding *Xenoposeidon* rests almost entirely upon its holotype specimen, which is identified specifically as a cervical vertebra, meaning a bone from the neck. This single fossil element is what provided the key diagnostic features, such as its extreme depth and the shape of its neural spines and centra, allowing paleontologists to establish the new genus.
Related Questions
What does the name Xenoposeidon literally translate to?What specific skeletal element constitutes the holotype specimen of Xenoposeidon proneneukus?What older genus was Xenoposeidon originally described as belonging to before its reclassification by Mike Taylor?What characteristic of the vertebra led to the specific epithet proneneukus for Xenoposeidon?During what geological period did Xenoposeidon exist, based on its association with the Wealden clays?Within which major sauropod clade is Xenoposeidon most frequently assigned, known for dominating the Late Cretaceous?What term describes the unique traits, like those found in the Xenoposeidon vertebra, that allow carving out a separate branch on the family tree?Xenoposeidon's inferred evolution suggests a history distinct from which of these groups, known for being more slender and long-necked?Why must interpretations of Xenoposeidon's limb length or skull shape be treated with significant caution?What specific shape characterizes the Xenoposeidon centrum, contrasting it with more primitive sauropod forms?