On certain features of Palaeocope ostracodes

Certain features of the carapace of palaeocope ostracodes are discussed and a new concept, the antrum, is introduced for the peripheral concavity present in the heteromorphs of many palaeocopes. The antrum is believed to have served as an egg shelter, and the possible functions of other structures (e. g. ridges and frills) are also dealt with. Features possibly indicative of a swimming or crawling mode of life are discussed. Two new palaeocope suborders are erected: Hollinomorpha nov., comprising forms with antrat dimorphism and possible non‐dimorphic off‐shoots, and Beyrichiomorpha nov., comprising forms with cruminal dimorphism.