Narceus gordanus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Myriapoda
Class: Diplopoda
Order: Spirobolida
Family: Spirobolidae
Genus: Narceus
Species: gordanus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Narceus gordanus: /ˈnɑr.si.əs ɡɔrˈdæn.əs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Narceus Gordanus millipede in defensive spiral by Anonymoose XVI. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Narceus gordanus by Andrew C. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Millipedes eating a strawberry by Anonymoose XVI. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Narceus gordanus (15156947171) by Andrew C. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Summary

Narceus gordanus, known as the smokey oak millipede, is a spirobolid millipede native to southeastern U.S., characterized by its distinct coloration and behavior.

Physical Characteristics

Adults range from 60 to 120 mm (2.4 to 4.7 in) in length, up to 13 mm wide, with 45 to 65 body segments. The body color is light greenish tan followed by a band of darker tan, and they have shorter legs and a deeper groove on the head for the antennae.

Identification Tips

Distinguished by lighter body coloration compared to other Narceus species, shorter legs, and a deep groove on the head.

Habitat

Florida scrub habitat in peninsular Florida.

Distribution

Native to the south-eastern United States, ranging from Florida to as far north as South Carolina, with possible records in Tennessee.

Diet

Decaying leaves, wood, and other detritus.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in decomposing organic matter by feeding on detritus.

Health Concerns

Secretions can cause a harmless discoloration known as millipede burn when exposed to human skin.

Misconceptions

The secretions are often mistaken for venom but are harmless and primarily a defensive mechanism.