Tricholepidion

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Zygentoma
Family: Lepidotrichidae
Genus: Tricholepidion

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Tricholepidion: /ˌtraɪkoʊˌlɛpɪˈdiɔn/

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Summary

Tricholepidion is a monotypic genus of wingless insects within the order Zygentoma, notable for its unique morphological characteristics and uncertain taxonomic positioning.

Physical Characteristics

Wingless insect with five-segmented tarsi and approximately 40 ommatidia per compound eye; lacks body scales.

Identification Tips

Look for the five-segmented tarsi, which differentiate it from other families of Zygentoma that may have three- or two-segmented tarsi.

Habitat

Under dead bark and in rotting wood of conifers in mesophytic forests.

Distribution

Native to the northern coast of California in Western North America.

Evolution

Taxonomic status is uncertain; consideration as the sole extant member of either Lepidotrichidae or Tricholepidiidae.

Misconceptions

Often misclassified due to its unclear phylogenetic relationship; can be confused with other silverfish due to similar habitat.