Scolopocryptops

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Myriapoda
Class: Chilopoda
Order: Scolopendromorpha
Family: Scolopocryptopidae
Genus: Scolopocryptops

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Scolopocryptops: //ˌskɒləpoʊˈkrɪptɒps//

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

Images

Scolopocryptops gracilis by Don Loarie. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Wood 1865 Myriapoda of North America 12-13 by Edward J. Nolan, supervised by Horatio C. Wood Jr.. Used under a Public domain license.

Eastern Red Centipede - Scolopocryptops sexspinosus (50055626578) by Christina Butler from Georgia, United States. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Myriapoda of North America 1865 plate I by A.J. Ibbotson, H.C Wood, Jr.. Used under a Public domain license.

Scolopocryptops sexspinosus - inat 65004327 by {{{name}}}. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Scolopocryptops sexspinosus 269773015 by Alex Karasoulos. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Scolopocryptops sexspinosus, known as the eastern red centipede, is a species of centipede found in North America, notable for being the only scolopendromorph found definitively in Canada and widespread in eastern North America.

Physical Characteristics

Reddish-orange coloration, with southeastern individuals being browner. 23 pairs of legs. Lacks ocelli (blind). Characteristic incomplete grooves on the dorsal plates. The first antenna segment is less hairy than the second or more distant segments. Specimens can attain lengths of up to 6.5 cm in Virginia.

Identification Tips

Look for a reddish-orange centipede with 23 pairs of legs and no ocelli. The incomplete grooves on the dorsal plates and hairiness of antenna segments can help in identification.

Habitat

Prefers hiding under rotting wood or leaf litter. Found in various environments across eastern North America and parts of Canada.

Distribution

Widespread across eastern North America from far southern Canada to the Carolinas and the Gulf Coast. Most abundant in British Columbia and Vancouver Island.

Diet

Feeds on spiders, insects, earthworms, and smaller centipedes.

Ecosystem Role

Predator of small invertebrates, helping to control their populations.

Health Concerns

Can deliver a painful bite if handled.

Similar Taxa

Scolopocryptops sexspinosus

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for other centipede species due to similarities in appearance.