Alabama scientists name newly discovered ancient species of crab after Nick Saban
By Jacob Moss
Published:
Even though he has been retired for going on 2 years at this point, legendary former Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban‘s influence can still be felt across the university he called home for almost 20 years.
When you resurrect one of the most iconic college football programs ever and lead them to 6 national titles, just about everybody associated with the university is going to hold you in high regard, and that’s held for Saban since his departure.
One of the more interesting ways Saban has been honored by the faculty in Tuscaloosa happened just recently, as archeologists working for the university have discovered a new species of ancient crab and named it after Saban himself.
A team led by University of Alabama researchers have discovered several ancient crab and shrimp fossils from central Alabama — including one they have named after legendary football coach Nick Saban,” reads a press release put out by the university announcing the discovery. “The crab’s official name is Costacopluma nicksabani, but it can be called the Saban crab, for short.
According to the announcement, the “Saban crab” was discovered in Lowndes County, just outside of Montgomery, and is believed to have existed between 48 and 87 million years ago.
Saban has been immortalized outside of Bryant-Denny Stadium in statue form since 2011, and he will now be immortalized in archeology textbooks everywhere with the discovery of the Saban crab.
