Species: White-legged Millipede (Tachypodoiulus niger)
Family: Millipedes (JULIDAE)
Category: Invertebrates (Other)
Location: Widespread
A. Invertebrates (Other)
More extensive information on invertebrates can be found in a separate blog post.
B. Millipedes (JULIDAE)
This is a large family characterised by their mouthparts and the presence of a cluster of many eyes. Their long, cylindrical bodies are often shiny and grey to black in colour.
C. White-legged Millipede (Tachypodoiulus niger)
With its shiny grey-black body segments contrasting with its white legs this is one of our most beautiful millipedes. When alarmed it coils its body tightly for defence, relying on its tough calcified exoskeleton for protection.
Additional Information
Millipede Information
Millipedes have two pairs of jointed legs per body segment, up to 333 in number, and mostly feed on decaying plant material. Each ‘double segment’ in their cylindrical or flattened bodies, is the evolutionary result of two single segments fusing together. Pill millipedes are short and can roll their bodies into a ball. In defence, millipedes don’t bite, but secrete a pungent, toxic liquid or gas from lateral glands. They should not therefore be handled with unprotected hands or eyes. They are found in soil, leaf mould and litter, and under stones, logs, and bark, to maintain body moisture.
Images
White-legged Millipede
With its shiny grey-black body segments contrasting with its white legs the White-legged Millipede is one of our most beautiful millipedes.
