Ostenderidae

Ostenderidae is a family of fossil decapod crustaceans. These extinct shrimp-like animals are known from the Cretaceous period. The family was first described by Martin in 1964. Ostenderidae are characterized by a somewhat elongated carapace and a series of well-developed pleura, which are the lateral projections of the abdominal segments. Their appendages, particularly the pereiopods, were likely adapted for scavenging or predation. Fossil specimens are relatively rare and are typically found in marine sedimentary rocks. The distribution of Ostenderidae fossils suggests they inhabited a range of shallow marine environments. Further research into their morphology and paleoecology continues to shed light on the diversity of decapod crustaceans during the Mesozoic Era. The classification of Ostenderidae within the broader order Decapoda is based on shared anatomical features, though specific phylogenetic relationships are still being investigated. The limited fossil record presents challenges in fully understanding their evolutionary history and ecological role.