FRIEND TO THE CEPHALOPODS: HONORING NEIL LANDMAN’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO CEPHALOPOD PALEOBIOLOGY

In this talk and wider session, we highlight how the work of Neil Landman has led to fundamental breakthroughs in understanding the evolution and biology of cephalopod molluscs and their importance in both ancient and modern marine ecosystems. Neil has synthesized theoretical concepts in heterochrony with painstaking studies of fossil morphology in his systematic work to test hypotheses about cephalopod growth and ontogeny. Seamlessly combining ‘traditional’ stratigraphic paleobiology with modern analytical techniques such as isotope geochemistry and CT scanning, Neil has documented fossil cephalopod anatomy, diets, and modes of life. Neil’s studies on the ecology of modern Nautilus opened new avenues in our ability to interpret the ecology of extinct taxa like ammonites. His work on the rich ammonite faunas from the Upper Cretaceous of the U.S. Western Interior Seaway and Gulf/Atlantic Coastal Plains (GCP/ACP), based on a long tradition of yearly field trips to these regions, continue to furnish new and sometimes surprising discoveries as to the diversity and ecology of ancient cephalopods. His research into the causes and consequences of the Cretaceous-Paleogene mass extinction event 66 million years ago, especially in uncovering the exceptional record contained in the shallow marine sediments of the GCP/ACP, has provided key data as to the reasons why ammonoids died out after more than 300 million years of evolutionary success, whereas their nautilid relatives survived to the present-day. Alongside these scientific accomplishments, we also celebrate the positive impact of Neil’s mentorship and support in the career development and academic success of dozens of early career scientists. Neil has been central to assembling a supportive international network of researchers interested in fossil cephalopods and shaped a new generation of cephalopod workers who will build on his life’s work.