Litholepas klausreschi gen. et sp. nov., a new neolepadine barnacle (Cirripedia, Thoracica) on a sponge from the Upper Jurassic lithographic limestones of southern Germany

In this study we describe a unique fossil comprising 13 intact specimens of a pedunculate cirripede attached to a sponge (Codites serpentinus). The fossil comes from the Upper Jurassic lithographic limestones of southern Germany. Based on the shape and distinctive sculpture of the plates, a new genus and species Litholepas klausreschi gen. et sp. nov. (Eolepadidae: Neolepadinae) is introduced. Although lateral plates are indistinct and the rostrum is unknown, plate disposition and strong external sculpture indicate a position within Neolepadinae tough the exact relationships are still uncertain. Representatives of L.klausreschi gen. et sp. nov. are considered to have lived either in a parasitic or commensal relationship partially buried within the sponge.