Octoglena
Wood, 1864
Species Guides
2Octoglena is a of small millipedes in the Hirudisomatidae, order Polyzoniida. The genus contains approximately seven described distributed in western North America, with records from California, Idaho, British Columbia, and scattered eastern localities. Species are distinguished by specialized male , including the recumbent orientation and distinctive podomere configurations. The genus represents one of two Western Hemisphere genera in Hirudisomatidae, alongside Mexiconium.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Octoglena: /ˌɒktoʊˈɡliːnə/
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Identification
Distinguished from the related Mexiconium by structure: Octoglena exhibit recumbent gonopodal orientation in situ and upright gonopod podomeres relative to the sternum. O. claraqua is uniquely identified by its banded color pattern and specific calyx configuration of the ultimate gonopod article. Identification to species level requires examination of male gonopods under high magnification; SEM examination is recommended for definitive assessment.
Images
Distribution
Western North America: California, Idaho, British Columbia. Scattered eastern records from Alabama and Georgia. The O. claraqua from Idaho represents the first record of the order Polyzoniida from the western interior of North America.
Similar Taxa
- MexiconiumOnly other Western Hemisphere in Hirudisomatidae; distinguished by including podomere orientation and sternal relationships