Pyritized Ostracod (Luprisca) With Preserved Embryos - New York

This is a rare, pyritized ostracod (Luprisca incuba) from the Whetstone Gulf Formation of New York. Ostracods are a group related to crabs, shrimps and lobsters. Described in 2014 the Ostracods from this quarry are the oldest known animal to exhibit brooding behavior. Specimens like this one have been found with microscopic limbs and incubating embryos.

Scientific American: Tiny, Ancient Crustacean Preserved in Fool’s Gold, Legs, Eggs and All

Full Paper: Exceptionally Preserved 450-Million-Year-Old Ordovician Ostracods with Brood Care