What was the maximum recorded length of the feathers growing from the femur of *Xiaotingia zhengi*?
Answer
55 mm (or about 2.16 inches)
The feathers on *Xiaotingia* were substantial, even on the upper leg bone. The text provides a specific measurement for the plumage growing from the femur, noting that these feathers reached lengths of up to 55 mm, which converts to approximately 2.16 inches. This detail underscores the density and structure of the dinosaur's integumentary covering, which was crucial for its hypothesized short-distance flight abilities.
Related Questions
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