Which family do some modern phylogenetic studies suggest Xiaotingia belongs within or directly alongside, grouping it with Anchiornis?
Answer
Anchiornithidae
Some modern phylogenetic analyses propose that Xiaotingia is positioned within or immediately adjacent to the Anchiornithidae family. This clustering groups it with other small, feathered dinosaurs such as Anchiornis and Aurornis. This association is important because it highlights a specific period characterized by intense evolutionary experimentation among small theropods occurring just before the definitive emergence of dinosaurs capable of powered flight, emphasizing the morphological diversity present in this transitional phase.
Related Questions
What specific geological age characterized the Late Jurassic epoch when Xiaotingia zhengi existed?In which present-day Chinese province were the remains of Xiaotingia zhengi unearthed?Within which major clade is Xiaotingia specifically nested, placing it among the most bird-like dinosaurs?What characteristic leg bone proportion in Xiaotingia suggests an adaptation for running speed?Which family do some modern phylogenetic studies suggest Xiaotingia belongs within or directly alongside, grouping it with Anchiornis?What is the catalog designation for the holotype specimen of Xiaotingia zhengi used by scientists?How does the tail length of Xiaotingia generally compare to many other theropods of a similar evolutionary grade?Xiaotingia's proximity places it near the foundational split of which clade encompassing birds and dinosaurs more closely related to birds than Ornithomimosaurs?What complexity regarding trait acquisition does the placement of Xiaotingia suggest about features considered 'advanced' for bird origins?What does the significance of Xiaotingia lie more in, concerning its contribution to evolutionary studies?