Myriapoda
Myriapoda
Myriapoda (pronounced: /ˌmaɪriˈæpədə/) is a subphylum of arthropods containing over 13,000 species of millipedes, centipedes, and others. The name "Myriapoda" is derived from the Greek words myrios (ten thousand) and pous (foot), referring to the many-legged nature of these creatures.
Etymology
The term "Myriapoda" comes from the Greek words myrios, meaning "countless", and pous, meaning "foot". This name was chosen due to the numerous legs that members of this subphylum possess.
Classification
Myriapoda is divided into four classes: Chilopoda (centipedes), Diplopoda (millipedes), Pauropoda, and Symphyla. Each class has unique characteristics and varying numbers of legs.
Chilopoda
Chilopoda, commonly known as centipedes, are elongated, flattened arthropods with one pair of legs per body segment. Despite the name, centipedes can have a varying number of legs from under 20 to over 300.
Diplopoda
Diplopoda, known as millipedes, are cylindrical arthropods with two pairs of legs per body segment. Millipedes are generally slower than centipedes and have a more rigid body structure.
Pauropoda
Pauropoda is a small, lesser-known class of small, soil-dwelling arthropods. They are typically less than 2 mm long and have 9-11 pairs of legs.
Symphyla
Symphyla are small, soil-dwelling arthropods that resemble centipedes but are smaller and have fewer body segments. They typically have 12 body segments and up to 24 legs.
Related Terms
- Arthropoda: The phylum to which Myriapoda belongs. It also includes insects, spiders, and crustaceans.
- Exoskeleton: A hard, protective outer layer covering the body of many invertebrates, including myriapods.
- Metamorphosis: The process of transformation from an immature form to an adult form in two or more distinct stages. Some myriapods undergo metamorphosis.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Myriapoda
- Wikipedia's article - Myriapoda
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