Hiltonius

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Myriapoda
Class: Diplopoda
Order: Spirobolida
Family: Spirobolidae
Genus: Hiltonius

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hiltonius: //hɪlˈtoʊniəs//

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Summary

Hiltonius is a genus of cylindrical millipedes in the family Spirobolidae comprising 10 species, known for their distinctively cylindrical shape and specific habitat range across the southwestern United States to Guatemala.

Physical Characteristics

Species of Hiltonius range from 35–70 mm long and 4–10 mm wide, with 40–49 body segments. The eyes consist of patches of ocelli, widely spaced, containing 21 to 37 ocelli per patch. The legs are short and do not reach the sides of the body when held horizontally. Color ranges from brown to nearly black, with thin bands of red or yellow on the rear margins of each segment.

Identification Tips

Can be identified by size (35–70 mm), number of body segments (40–49), and ocelli count (21 to 37 per eye patch). The presence of short legs that do not reach the body sides is also a distinguishing feature.

Habitat

Found in diverse habitats from southwestern United States to Guatemala, particularly prevalent in areas of Mexico.

Distribution

Southwestern United States to Guatemala, with most species diversity in Mexico.

Similar Taxa

Tylobolus