Alabama Researchers Name New 'Saban' Crab Species
University of Alabama paleontologists announced they discovered numerous fossil decapod crustaceans in Lowndes County, Alabama, including a new crab species they formally named Costacopluma nicksabani (nicknamed the 'Saban crab'). The fossils — roughly 200 specimens from strata dated about 48–87 million years old — prompted the team to erect one new crab genus and one new burrowing‑shrimp genus to better place several species in the decapod tree of life, and the lead author cited Nick Saban's on‑the‑ground impact and charitable work as the reason for the species name.
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🔍 Key Facts
- The new species is named Costacopluma nicksabani (common name: Saban crab).
- Fossils were recovered in Lowndes County, Alabama; about 200 specimens were found at the site.
- Researchers estimate the fossils date between 48 million and 87 million years ago and include seven other species plus new genera for classification.