Which family did the 2018 study by Taylor place Xenoposeidon proneneukos as a basal member of?
Answer
Rebbachisauridae
Although initial phylogenetic analyses in 2007 found *Xenoposeidon* difficult to place, tentatively labeling it as a neosauropod of uncertain affinities, later research provided clearer resolution. A crucial 2018 study conducted by Taylor successfully recovered *Xenoposeidon proneneukos* as representing a basal member of the Rebbachisauridae family. This classification was highly significant because it dramatically predated the established temporal range for other members of that family, effectively pushing the known origin of the Rebbachisauridae lineage much further back into the Early Cretaceous period, making *Xenoposeidon* the earliest known member of that specific group based on current understanding.
Related Questions
What is the Greek meaning of the specific epithet proneneukos in Xenoposeidon proneneukos?Which genus did Richard Lydekker initially assign specimen BMNH R2095 to in 1893?At what approximate angle does the neural arch of the Xenoposeidon vertebra slope anteriorly?Which family did the 2018 study by Taylor place Xenoposeidon proneneukos as a basal member of?If Xenoposeidon shared the build of Diplodocus, what was the corresponding estimated length?What shape is the neural canal described as being at its front end in the Xenoposeidon vertebra?Which sauropod analogue was used to estimate the heavier potential weight for Xenoposeidon?What ecological role is suggested for Xenoposeidon regarding the Cretaceous vegetation structure?Approximately how many million years older is Xenoposeidon than the next recognized Rebbachisaurid, Histriasaurus?Which group of carnivores, characterized by crocodile-like snouts, were potential predators in the Xenoposeidon's Wessex Formation environment?