What was the primary role suggested by the powerful forelimbs and well-developed shoulder muscles of *Smilodon*?

Answer

Pinning and stabilizing large prey while delivering the fatal strike

The exceptionally powerful forelimbs and shoulder musculature were adapted to provide the necessary stability and leverage to hold large, struggling megafauna down while the animal aimed the fatal throat or belly strike.

What was the primary role suggested by the powerful forelimbs and well-developed shoulder muscles of *Smilodon*?
paleontologyadaptationtoothCarnivoreFeline