Hemianamorphic
Guides
Lithobius melanops
Garden Lithobius, European steppe centipede
Lithobius melanops is a small stone centipede in the order Lithobiomorpha, native to Europe but introduced to many regions worldwide. Adults measure 11–17 mm in length with a dorsoventrally flattened, fusiform body. The species is distinguished by a combination of morphological traits including 32–44 antennal articles, 10–13 ocelli with a notably enlarged posterior ocellus, and specific tergite projections. It inhabits dry, open habitats and is a nocturnal predator of soil invertebrates.