Polydesmidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Polydesmidae: /ˌpɒlɪˈdɛzmɪdiː/

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Summary

The family Polydesmidae comprises a diverse group of millipedes notable for their size, coloration, and unique sexual dimorphism in segment count. They are mainly found in temperate regions and contribute significantly to their ecosystems through detritivory.

Physical Characteristics

Millipedes in the family Polydesmidae range from 4 mm to 30 mm in length, exhibiting colors from pitch black to reddish or brownish, and occasionally pallid. They have a small, transverse oval collum with a smooth anterior margin. The paranota are typically well developed and dentate laterally, exhibiting sexual dimorphism in segment number.

Identification Tips

Look for the small transfverse oval collum and pronounced paranota. Note the color variations from black to reddish or brownish, and the segment count difference in males and females within the genus Perapolydesmus.

Habitat

Primarily found in temperate forests, grasslands, and various terrestrial habitats across the Northern Hemisphere.

Distribution

Found in the Northern Hemisphere; species extend south to Mexico, North Africa, and Java with a mostly Holarctic distribution.

Diet

Herbivorous, feeding on decaying plant material and detritus.

Life Cycle

Life cycle information is typically not well-documented, but like most millepedes, they undergo a series of molts through various juvenile stages before reaching adulthood.

Reproduction

Polydesmidae exhibit sexual dimorphism, particularly in the genus Perapolydesmus, where males possess one lesser segment than females. They reproduce sexually with distinct male and female individuals.

Predators

Predators include various insectivorous animals and larger invertebrates, as well as birds and some small mammals.

Ecosystem Role

Play a critical role in the decomposition of organic materials, contributing to soil health and nutrient cycling.

Collecting Methods

• Hand collection in suitable habitats
• Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol immersion
• Drying and pinning
• Freezing prior to preservation

Similar Taxa

• Other families within the order Polydesmida
• Other millipede families

Misconceptions

Millipedes in this family are often confused with centipedes; however, millipedes have two pairs of legs per body segment whereas centipedes have one pair per segment.

Tags

• Polydesmidae
• millipedes
• diplopoda
• Polydesmida
• Holarctic