Scolopendridae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Myriapoda
Class: Chilopoda
Order: Scolopendromorpha
Family: Scolopendridae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Scolopendridae: /ˌskɒləˈpɛndrəˌdeɪ/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Giant Redhead Centipede (Scolopendridae, Scolopendra heros) (30247704795) by Insects Unlocked
. Used under a CC0 license.

Scolopendra polymorpha 223590218 by Daniel McNair. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Scolopendra heros by John. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Scolopendra heros, black body and red head (10530460306) by Frank Boston from Owasso, U.S.. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Scolopendra polymorpha 190729547 by Darin J McGuire. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

The animal kingdom arranged in conformity with its organization (1827) (18196822505) by Internet Archive Book Images. Used under a No restrictions license.

Summary

Scolopendridae is a family of large centipedes known for their distinctive physical characteristics, diverse habitat preferences, and significant ecological roles as predators. This family includes multiple genera and species adapted to various environments, some exhibiting unique traits such as amphibious behavior and sexual dimorphism in venom composition.

Physical Characteristics

Members of the Scolopendridae family typically have four ocelli (simple eyes) on each side of the head and 21 pairs of legs; however, some species like Scolopendropsis bahiensis and S. duplicata may have more leg pairs, and certain species are eyeless.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic four simple eyes and the number of leg pairs, which is typically 21 in most species.

Habitat

Scolopendridae are found in various habitats including forests, grasslands, and under rocks or leaf litter, and some species show amphibious behavior.

Distribution

Transcontinental distribution in the southern United States, extending north to Virginia, Missouri, South Dakota, southeastern Montana, and eastern Oregon; over 400 species in 20 genera worldwide.

Diet

Predominantly carnivorous, feeding on insects and other small invertebrates.

Life Cycle

Lifecycle details are not specified in the provided text.

Reproduction

Reproduction methods are not specified in the provided text.

Predators

Predation details are not specified in the provided text.

Conservation Status

Not specified in the provided text.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role as predators in their ecosystems, controlling the populations of various small invertebrates.

Economic Impact

No specific economic impacts have been mentioned; generally not considered economically impactful.

Cultural Significance

Culturally significant in some regions as part of local biodiversity; may be viewed differently in various cultures.

Health Concerns

Some species may possess venom, which could pose a health risk to humans if bitten.

Evolution

The family includes extinct genus †Cratoraricrus from the Early Cretaceous, indicating a long evolutionary history.

Misconceptions

Common misconceptions include the belief that all centipedes are harmful or venomous; however, not all species pose a threat to humans.