Scutigerellidae

Definition

A family of pseudocentipedes (class Symphyla) comprising at least 138 described species across five genera, with subcosmopolitan distribution. Members are small, eyeless, fast-moving soil arthropods with 12 pairs of legs and a pair of spinnerets on the terminal segment, distinguished from true centipedes (Chilopoda) by their lack of venom claws and distinct head capsule morphology.

Etymology

From genus Scutigerella (Latin scutum 'shield' + diminutive suffix, referring to the tergal plates) + family suffix -idae

Example

Scutigerella immaculata (garden symphylan) is a widespread agricultural pest in this family, damaging crop roots in moist cultivated soils across temperate regions.

Related Terms

• Symphyla
• pseudocentipede
• Scutigerella
• Chilopoda
• Garden symphylan
• soil mesofauna
• Hanseniellidae

Usage Notes

Scutigerellidae is the largest and most familiar family of Symphyla, though the group is often overlooked in favor of true centipedes. The family is distinguished from the smaller family Hanseniellidae by features of the maxillary glands and spiracle arrangement. Species identification requires examination of the number of antennal segments and the arrangement of setae on the tergites.