Oxidus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Oxidus: /ˈɒksɪdəs/

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Summary

Oxidus gracilis, commonly known as the greenhouse millipede, is an adventive species notable for its wide distribution and role in decomposition and soil health. It is characterized by its flat body and absence of eyes, making it unique among millipedes. Although it is sometimes viewed as a pest in greenhouses, it plays a critical ecological role.

Physical Characteristics

Brown in color with pale cream-colored legs and paranota; flat body shape; lengths of 18 to 23 mm (0.71 to 0.91 in) with widths of 2 to 2.5 mm (0.079 to 0.098 in); achieves 60 legs and about 15 body segments; possesses transverse grooves on the dorsal section of each segment; blind and lacks eyes.

Identification Tips

Look for their flat-back profile and the presence of lateral keels (paranota) on each segment. They have a brown body and pale cream-colored legs.

Habitat

Prefers cool, moist environments; often found under stones or rotting logs in overgrown areas; invades greenhouses, garages, and basements.

Distribution

Originates from tropical regions; found in southern and western states of the USA, Northern Europe, and other parts of the world as an introduced species.

Diet

Feeds on decaying organic matter such as leaf litter, mulch, and grass thatch.

Life Cycle

The greenhouse millipede undergoes multiple molts before reaching maturity at around 6-7 months of age.

Reproduction

Reproduces sexually; females release a sticky substance after fertilization to seal their vulvae and protect the eggs until they hatch; lays 40-50 fertilized eggs that develop over 6-8 weeks.

Predators

Ants such as Gnamptogenys ingeborgi and glowworm larvae like Zarhipis integripennis.

Ecosystem Role

Contributes to nutrient cycling and decomposition; aerates soil and enhances root growth; provides sustenance for various organisms.

Economic Impact

Important for recycling plant material and maintaining soil health, especially in urban environments.

Health Concerns

Releases a pungent smell when crushed; produces cyanide as a defense mechanism against predators.

Collecting Methods

• Hand collecting
• Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Dry preservation in labeled jars

Misconceptions

Often misidentified as harmful pests despite their important ecological role; their mass migrations can be misinterpreted as a major infestation.

Tags

• Oxidus
• Greenhouse millipede
• Invasive species
• Ecology
• Soil health