What unusual feature concerning the frill openings did Xenoceratops possess compared to other contemporary centrosaurines?
Answer
It possessed parietal fenestrae (openings in the frill bone).
A key distinguishing anatomical trait for Xenoceratops involves the parietal fenestrae—the large openings typically found within the bony frill structure extending from the back of the skull. Unlike many other centrosaurines contemporary to it, Xenoceratops retained these parietal fenestrae, meaning the bone structure of its frill was not fully enclosed or lacking these openings. This feature provides researchers with clearer comparative morphology, allowing confident establishment of homology against later forms when examining the frill structure.
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