Strigamia epileptica

Differs from other Strigamia species by subtle characters of leg number, sternite structure, and gonopod morphology, requiring microscopic examination. Distinguished from superficially similar geophilid centipedes by having 47-49 leg pairs (versus higher counts in many Geophilidae) and by the structure of the ultimate legs. Separation from congeneric species such as S. bothriopus and S. acuminata requires examination of male gonopods and female genitalia. The specific epithet 'epileptica' refers to the rapid, jerky movements characteristic of this species when disturbed.

Elongate, slender body with 47-49 pairs of legs in adults (characteristic of the genus Strigamia). Body coloration generally pale to yellowish, typical of soil-dwelling geophilomorphs. Antennae relatively short compared to body length. Each leg-bearing segment bears a single pair of legs, with the final pair slightly longer than preceding pairs. Tergites without prominent sculpturing. Forcipules (venom claws) present but relatively small.

Soil and leaf litter in forested and semi-forested habitats; found in mesic to moist microhabitats. Occurs in the upper soil horizons and decaying organic matter.

United States; recorded from eastern and central North America. Distribution details remain incompletely documented due to limited collecting and taxonomic study.

Active year-round in suitable microhabitats, with surface activity likely reduced during extreme cold or dry periods.

Rapid, jerky movements when disturbed (the source of the specific epithet 'epileptica'). Burrows through soil and leaf litter using coordinated leg movements. Secretive, spending most of its life in soil matrix.

Predator in soil and leaf litter food webs; contributes to nutrient cycling through soil mixing and consumption of small invertebrates.

No documented economic or medical importance. Bite not considered dangerous to humans due to small size and weak forcipules.

• Strigamia bothriopusOverlapping distribution and similar habitat; distinguished by leg count and gonopod structure
• Strigamia acuminataSympatric in parts of range; requires examination of sternal pore fields and ultimate leg morphology for separation
• Geophilus spp.Similar elongate form and habitat; distinguished by higher leg pair counts (typically 55-101 pairs) and different head structure

• centipede
• myriapod
• soil fauna
• North America
• Linotaeniidae

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life