Millipede-predator
Guides
Phengodes fenestrata
Phengodes fenestrata is a species of glowworm beetle in the family Phengodidae, described by Wittmer in 1976. The genus Phengodes is known for bioluminescent larvae that are specialist predators of millipedes. Related species have been documented employing sophisticated chemical strategies to circumvent millipede defensive secretions. The species occurs in North America.
Phengodes frontalis
glowworm beetle
Phengodes frontalis is a species of glowworm beetle in the family Phengodidae, first described by LeConte in 1881. Adults are bioluminescent, with females retaining a larval-like appearance (paedomorphosis) and lacking wings. The species occurs in North America, including Mexico. Larvae are specialist predators of millipedes, employing a unique feeding strategy that circumvents millipede chemical defenses.
Phengodes laticollis
glowworm beetle
Phengodes laticollis is a glowworm beetle in the family Phengodidae, notable for pronounced sexual dimorphism and bioluminescence across all life stages. Females are larviform, larger than males, and produce yellow or green light from organs on trunk segments. Males are smaller, winged, and possess large curved mandibles. The species has been documented circumventing millipede chemical defenses through specialized predatory behavior.
Promecognissimus laevissimus
smooth millipede hunter
Promecognathus laevissimus is a ground beetle specializing in predation on cyanide-producing millipedes. It possesses exceptional physiological tolerance to hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde, toxins that incapacitate most other predators. The species exhibits unique prey-handling behaviors and has been extensively studied for its biochemical resistance mechanisms, which may have potential applications in human medicine for cyanide poisoning treatment.
Rhiginia cruciata
scarlet-bordered assassin bug, cruciate assassin bug
Rhiginia cruciata is a predatory true bug in the family Reduviidae, commonly called the scarlet-bordered assassin bug or cruciate assassin bug. It is classified among the "millipede assassins" in the subfamily Ectrichodiinae, a group specialized for hunting millipedes. The species occurs across the Caribbean, Central America, and North America.