Which heavily armored dinosaur group was one potential affinity suggested for *Xiaosaurus* based on early interpretations?
Answer
Ankylosauria (Thyreophora)
The phylogenetic placement of *Xiaosaurus* has historically presented scientific ambiguity due to the incomplete nature of the holotype specimen. Some early interpretive studies, focusing on specific features observed in the skull or pelvis material, led researchers to suggest a possible evolutionary link to the Ankylosauria group, which falls under the broader Thyreophora category of armored dinosaurs. This hypothetical placement highlights the difficulty in classifying basal members of a rapidly diversifying clade.
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