What unique snout morphology distinguishes Xiongguanlong from many later relatives?
Answer
Elongated, almost crocodile-like snout
Xiongguanlong is characterized by a highly distinctive physical trait: an elongated snout that is described as being almost crocodile-like. This morphology sets it apart from its contemporaries and especially from the later, much bulkier tyrannosaurs known for developing immense skull strength for bone-crushing. This slender build and long snout suggest that Xiongguanlong was likely specialized for hunting smaller or faster prey within its terrestrial environment in the Junggar Basin during the Late Jurassic.

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