What specific subfamily within Ceratopsidae does phylogenetic analysis firmly place Xenoceratops within?
Answer
Centrosaurinae
Phylogenetic analysis definitively groups Xenoceratops into the Centrosaurinae subfamily of the larger Ceratopsidae family. This grouping is crucial because it connects Xenoceratops to later, well-known dinosaurs such as Styracosaurus and Pachyrhinosaurus. Being placed in the Centrosaurinae lineage suggests that the fundamental anatomical blueprint characteristic of this clade—including features like a tendency toward a large nose horn and elaborate frill ornamentation—was already well established quite early in the Campanian stage of the Late Cretaceous.
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Approximately how old is the oldest definitive ceratopsid, Xenoceratops, discovered in North America?What specific subfamily within Ceratopsidae does phylogenetic analysis firmly place Xenoceratops within?What descriptive meaning is conveyed by the name Xenoceratops regarding its facial structure?What unique structural characteristic is noted on the rear margin of the Xenoceratops frill?How did the brow horns of Xenoceratops compare functionally and morphologically to its nasal horn?In which geological formation and stage is Xenoceratops firmly placed, establishing its age?What does the derived morphology of Xenoceratops suggest about the evolutionary pace of Centrosaurines?What unusual feature concerning the frill openings did Xenoceratops possess compared to other contemporary centrosaurines?What is the catalog designation given to the relatively complete holotype specimen of Xenoceratops?What was the estimated general size classification and length range for Xenoceratops in its environment?