Chilopoda
Chilopoda
Chilopoda (pronounced: /ˌkaɪləˈpɒdə/), commonly known as centipedes, is a class of arthropods belonging to the subphylum Myriapoda. The term "Chilopoda" comes from the Greek words 'cheilos' meaning lip and 'pous' meaning foot.
Etymology
The term "Chilopoda" is derived from the Greek words 'cheilos' (lip) and 'pous' (foot), referring to the numerous legs of these creatures. The name "centipede" is derived from the Latin 'centum' (hundred) and 'pes' (foot), although the number of legs in centipedes can vary widely from 30 to 354.
Description
Chilopoda are elongated, flattened arthropods with numerous legs - one pair per body segment. They are predominantly carnivorous and are known for their venomous fangs, which they use to paralyze their prey. There are approximately 3,300 known species of centipedes worldwide.
Classification
Chilopoda is divided into five orders: Scutigeromorpha, Lithobiomorpha, Craterostigmomorpha, Scolopendromorpha, and Geophilomorpha. Each order has unique characteristics and a distinct geographical distribution.
Habitat and Distribution
Centipedes are found in an array of terrestrial habitats from tropical rainforests to deserts. They are found on all continents except Antarctica.
Related Terms
- Arthropoda: The phylum to which Chilopoda belongs.
- Myriapoda: The subphylum of arthropods that includes centipedes and millipedes.
- Scutigeromorpha: An order of centipedes also known as house centipedes.
- Lithobiomorpha: An order of centipedes known for their preference for a rocky habitat.
- Craterostigmomorpha: A rare order of centipedes found only in New Zealand and Australia.
- Scolopendromorpha: An order of large and often brightly colored centipedes.
- Geophilomorpha: An order of centipedes that are blind and live underground.
This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.