[D] Xinjiangovenator parvus [sG] [T]
Describer
Rauhut, Xu 2005
Time
Cretaceous Early ?Valanginian Hauterivian Barremian Aptian Albian
Classification
Saurischia Theropoda Tetanurae Coelurosauria Maniraptora
Diet
Carnivore
Fossilsite
Lianmugin Formation, Tugulu Group of the Junggar Basin, Xinjiang Uygur Zizhiqu, China
Info
Genus - Typespecies
Holotype
(IVPP V 4024-2) (2.5-4.2 m) tibia (312 mm including tarsal), fibula, astragalus, calcaneum. Fibular condyle of tibia extending farther posteriorly than lateral side of proximal end of this bone; fibula with longitudinal groove on anterior side of proximal end.
A partial hind limb (tibia, fibula, astragalus, and calcaneum) originally referred to Phaedrolosaurus ilikensis[found in the same horizon but a different site] who is based on an isolated tooth, is demonstrated to be a distinct taxon of theropod on the basis of a posteriorly expanded fibular condyle on the proximal tibia and a longitudinal groove on the anterior side of the proximal end of the fibula.
Therefore the researchers made the type of a new taxon, Xinjiangovenator parvus gen. et sp. nov. Whereas Tugulusaurus faciles is the most basal coelurosaur known, Xinjiangovenator represents a maniraptoran.. There is a vague possible relationship with Bagaraatan ostromi. It has an unusual groove on the fibula.
Etymology
Parvus, Latin for small, referring to the small size of the specimen.
Diagnosis
Small theropod (length of the tibia plus proximal tarsals: 312 mm); fibular condyle of tibia extending farther posteriorly than lateral side of proximal end of this bone; fibula with longitudinal groove on anterior side of proximal end.