Spirobolid Millipedes
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Spirobolid millipede, order Spirobolida
Image: Jiri Lochman/Lochman Transparen
© Jiri Lochman/Lochman Transparencies
© Jiri Lochman/Lochman Transparencies
Fast Facts
-
Classification
- Order
- Spirobolida
- Subclass
- Helminthomorpha
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Subphylum
- Uniramia
- Phylum
- Arthopoda
- Kingdom
- Animalia
-
- Size Range
- 20 cm
Introduction
Spirobolid millipedes grow to large sizes with some reaching 20 cm.
Identification
The body of spirobolid millipedes is usually well rounded.
Habitat
Spirobolid millipedes are found in moist areas, especially under logs and in leaf litter.
Distribution
Spirobolid millipedes are found in eastern Australia in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria (most species are found worldwide in the tropics).
Feeding and diet
Spirobolid millipedes feed on the soft parts of plants and decaying vegetation.
Other behaviours and adaptations
Like other millipedes, spirobolid millipedes have defensive chemicals that, although not poisonous to humans, may stain the skin.
