What was the measured length of the femur, or thigh bone, of a Xiaosaurus hindlimb?
Answer
11 centimeters (4.3 inches)
The recovered skeletal elements provide specific measurements that define the creature's proportions. The femur, which is the primary bone of the hindlimb, was specifically measured to be quite short, registering only 11 centimeters, which is equivalent to approximately 4.3 inches. This small measurement, combined with the fact that *Xiaosaurus* was bipedal and built for agility, highlights its diminutive stature relative to many contemporary or later dinosaurs. This specific bone length contributes to the overall estimation of its light weight and small size, suggesting a creature reliant on quick dashes rather than sustained power.
Related Questions
What is the primary translation of Xiaosaurus, derived from the Chinese word xiao?During which geological epoch did Xiaosaurus roam the Earth, spanning roughly 170.3 to 163.5 million years ago?How many distinct toes terminated the hind feet of the bipedal Xiaosaurus?What term, meaning 'doubtful name,' was applied to Xiaosaurus due to insufficient diagnostic material?What was the measured length of the femur, or thigh bone, of a Xiaosaurus hindlimb?What primary dietary classification defines Xiaosaurus, necessitating adaptations like a beaked mouth for cropping vegetation?What specific autapomorphy, a unique derived trait, was identified to provisionally validate the Xiaosaurus genus?In which specific geological layers within the Sichuan Basin were the fossils of Xiaosaurus found?Which two paleontologists formally assigned the moniker Xiaosaurus dashanpensis in 1983?Despite being bipedal with small forelimbs, how many distinct fingers did the front limbs of Xiaosaurus possess?