Why is Xenoceratops considered a critical data point for tracking specialization in Canadian ceratopsians?
Answer
It is one of the oldest large-bodied horned dinosaurs found there
Xenoceratops holds significant paleontological importance because it is classified as one of the oldest examples of a large-bodied horned dinosaur discovered within Canada. This positioning in the geological timeline makes it a vital piece of evidence for scientists tracking the early diversification and specialization processes within the entire ceratopsian lineage as they evolved in that region, leading up to later, massive forms like Triceratops.
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