Brachoria
Chamberlin, 1939
Appalachian Mimic Millipedes
Brachoria is a of polydesmidan millipedes comprising at least 30 to the Eastern United States. The genus exhibits exceptional diversity in the Appalachian Mountains, particularly the Cumberland Plateau and Ridge and Valley Province. Members are notable for their striking aposematic coloration and Müllerian mimicry relationships with co-occurring Apheloria species. Species identification relies heavily on male and geographic location due to restricted ranges.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Brachoria: /brəˈkɔːriə/
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Identification
-level identification requires examination of male (reproductive appendages), which vary among the 30+ species. Geographic location provides critical supplementary information, as many species have extremely restricted distributions. Bold color patterns of yellow, orange, red, or violet on black background are characteristic of the , though these patterns alone do not distinguish individual species.
Images
Habitat
Eastern United States, with highest concentration in Appalachian Mountain regions including the Cumberland Plateau and Ridge and Valley Province. Specific microhabitat preferences are not well documented in available sources.
Distribution
to the Eastern United States. Center of diversity in the Appalachian Mountains, particularly the Cumberland Plateau and Ridge and Valley Province.
Similar Taxa
More Details
Müllerian Mimicry
Some Brachoria in the Appalachians exhibit Müllerian mimicry with co-occurring Apheloria millipedes, sharing similar warning coloration that reinforces avoidance learning.
Species Discovery
Over 30 are currently recognized, with new species continuing to be described based on and geographic isolation patterns.