Cylindroiulus caeruleocinctus
(Wood, 1864)
Cylindroiulus caeruleocinctus is a julid native to northern Europe that has been to North America and is now widespread there. It reaches up to 30 mm in length and is distinguished by a smooth, flat rather than a projecting one. The is common in urban and semi-natural including parks, gardens, and grasslands. Activity peaks in spring and fall, with reduced presence in summer and winter.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cylindroiulus caeruleocinctus: /sɪˌlɪndroʊˈjuːləs sɪnˌkʌŋkˈtəəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from Cylindroiulus londinensis by its smaller size and flat, non-protruding (C. londinensis has a club-shaped projecting telson and exceeds 30 mm). Separated from Julus scandinavius and Tachypodoiulus niger, which have pointed telsons. Differs from Cylindroiulus britannicus by larger size (C. britannicus is under 20 mm). The blue or dark band on each and bean-shaped are additional field marks.
Images
Habitat
Found in grassland, hedgerows, and small woodlands; rarely in closed forest. Thrives in urban environments including parks, gardens, and cemeteries. Often occurs under wet leaf litter in parks and along riverbanks in towns.
Distribution
Native to northern Europe including Germany, United Kingdom, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, Luxembourg, Netherlands, and France. to North America with established in Canada and the United States.
Seasonality
Activity increases significantly in spring and fall; decreases markedly in summer and winter.
Diet
Feeds primarily on broadleaf plants, with grass and moss as secondary food sources.
Human Relevance
Has been recorded as an agricultural pest. Abundant in urban green spaces where it contributes to leaf litter decomposition.
Similar Taxa
- Cylindroiulus londinensisLarger size and club-shaped projecting versus flat telson in C. caeruleocinctus
- Julus scandinaviusSimilar dark coloration but has pointed
- Tachypodoiulus nigerSimilar size and color but has pointed
- Cylindroiulus britannicusLacks projecting but much smaller (under 20 mm)