Julida

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Julida: //ˈjuːlɪdə//

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Images

Summary

Julida is an order of millipedes characterized by mostly small, cylindrical forms with variable eyes and significant legs modification in males. Distribution mainly in temperate regions globally.

Physical Characteristics

10–120 mm in length, snake-like body, eyes may be present or absent, often with fringe of setae around posterior end of body, 30-90 segments, first pair of legs hook-like in males, conspicuous grooves on segments in some families (Julidae and Paeromopodidae).

Identification Tips

Look for the cylindrical body shape and the presence of hook-like structures on the first pair of legs in males. The number of body segments may also assist in identification.

Habitat

Predominantly temperate regions, including North America, Panama, Europe, Asia north of the Himalayas, Asir region, Saudi Arabia, and Southeast Asia.

Distribution

North America, Panama, Europe, Asia north of the Himalayas, Asir region, Saudi Arabia, and Southeast Asia.

Diet

Detritivorous, feeding on decaying plant material and organic matter.

Reproduction

Males possess modified legs for transferring sperm; the specific reproductive behavior varies by species.

Ecosystem Role

Important decomposers in terrestrial ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling.

Collecting Methods

• Hand collecting
• Pitfall traps
• Berlese funnel extraction

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Freezing
• Drying for museum specimens

Similar Taxa

• Polydesmida
• Iulomorpha
• Glomerida

Misconceptions

Often confused with centipedes, but millipedes (including Julida) have two pairs of legs per body segment, unlike centipedes which have one.

Tags

• millipedes
• Julida
• arthropods
• myriapoda
• diplopoda