Which physical characteristic of Xiphactinus demonstrates an adaptation for rapid, open-water pursuit?
Answer
Its overall streamlined body shape
The physical structure of Xiphactinus included a powerful and athletic build, characterized fundamentally by a streamlined overall body shape. This geometry is a classic indicator of an organism adapted for speed and rapid locomotion through the water column, as it serves to minimize hydrodynamic drag. While the heavy armor created mass, the streamlined form ensured that the fish could still achieve the necessary efficiency for active pursuit hunting in the open ocean environment of the Western Interior Seaway, relying on powerful thrusts generated by its posterior body and lunate tail.
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