Spirostreptida

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Myriapoda
Class: Diplopoda
Order: Spirostreptida

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Spirostreptida: //ˌspaɪroʊˈstrɛptɪdə//

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Summary

Spirostreptida is an order of large, cylindrical millipedes known for their significant length and tropical distribution, comprising around 1000 described species globally.

Physical Characteristics

Long, cylindrical body with 30 to 90 segments; eyes usually present; up to 28 cm in length, with the largest species exceeding 30 cm.

Identification Tips

Look for cylindrical shape, significant body segments (30-90), and presence of eyes.

Habitat

Primarily tropical environments.

Distribution

Found in Africa, Southern and Eastern Asia, Australia, and the Western Hemisphere, from the United States to Argentina.

Diet

Detritivores, feeding mainly on decaying organic matter.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in soil formation and nutrient recycling as detritivores.

Economic Impact

Some species can become agricultural pests, such as Spinotarsus caboverdus in Cape Verde.

Collecting Methods

Pitfall traps
Hand collection
Light traps

Preservation Methods

Ethanol
Drying
Freezing

Evolution

Fragmentary fossil record with the oldest records dating back to the Late Cretaceous; includes extinct family Electrocambalidae from amber.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often mistaken for poisonous creatures; however, they are harmless to humans.