Ustatidae

Ustatidae is a family of crustaceans within the order Isopoda. It is a relatively small and poorly known group, described from a limited number of species and with ongoing questions about its circumscription and placement in modern classifications. The family has historically included a few genera, though its exact composition has varied with taxonomic revisions of isopod systematics.

Members of Ustatidae are small, dorsoventrally flattened isopods that inhabit marine environments. They are typically found in cryptic habitats such as under rocks, among algal mats, or in crevices, from shallow subtidal zones to deeper coastal waters. Morphology is generally modest, with features common to many isopods rather than highly distinctive autapomorphies.

Distribution and ecology: Records indicate a patchy, widely distributed pattern across temperate and tropical coastal regions, though detailed distribution maps are limited by the scarcity of described species. Ecologically, they are thought to be detritivores or scavengers, contributing to the breakdown of organic matter on the seabed.

Taxonomic status: The name Ustatidae has appeared in various checklists and catalogs, but its status has been subject to revision, with some authorities recognizing it as a valid family and others combining its members with related isopod groups. The placement of the family within Isopoda reflects broader uncertainties in isopod systematics.

References: Major marine species databases and taxonomic catalogs list Ustatidae as a family within Isopoda, though treatments can vary by source.