The Permian podocopids (Crustacea: Ostracoda) from the Serra Alta and Teresina formations, Parana Basin, Brazil

Twenty-five species of Podocopida are reported in seven localities in the Sao Paulo State, Brazil, corresponding to the Serra Alta and Teresina formations (Middle to Upper Permian). The specimens are mostly preserved as steinkerns (internal molds), except some carbonitids and cytherocopines which are predominantly recrystallized. The results indicate marginal marine environments influenced by influxes of nonmarine waters, as suggested by the occurrence of Velatomorpha, Gutschickia, Carbonita and Darwinuloidea. Velatomorpha rochacamposi sp. nov. is described, and evidences of predation are reported for the first time in Paleozoic ostracods. This study contributes to the understanding of the ecology and evolution of nonmarine ostracods during the Late Paleozoic.