Olfactius

Olfactius is a genus of extinct marine animals belonging to the class Cephalopoda, known for their elongated bodies and presumed advanced sensory capabilities. The genus was first described in the early 21st century based on fossilized specimens discovered in Late Jurassic marine deposits. Olfactius species are characterized by their streamlined bodies, large eye sockets, and tentacle bases suggesting complex sensory organs potentially used for hunting or navigation in deep-sea environments.

Fossil evidence indicates that Olfactius possessed a chambered shell or internalized shell structure, similar to modern cephalopods, which provided buoyancy control and protection. The morphology of its eye structures suggests it might have had highly developed olfactory or visual senses, aiding its survival in dark, murky waters. These adaptations imply it was a predator that relied on keen senses to locate prey.

The distribution of Olfactius fossils has been primarily in Europe and North America, with some findings in Asia, suggesting a widespread presence in Tethyan and other ancient oceanic regions. The temporal range of the genus spans approximately from the Late Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous periods, roughly 160 to 100 million years ago.

As an extinct genus, Olfactius contributes to the understanding of cephalopod evolution, particularly concerning sensory adaptations and ecological niches during the Mesozoic era. Its fossil record provides valuable insights into marine biodiversity and the evolutionary history of cephalopods, highlighting the diversity and complexity of ancient marine ecosystems.