Millipede

Millipede is a group of arthropods that are characterized by having two pairs of jointed legs on most body segments. They are known for their elongated cylindrical bodies and are part of the class Diplopoda.

Anatomy and physiology

Millipedes are typically brown, moving with a wave-like motion, and are detritivores, eating decaying leaves and other dead plant matter. Some species can secrete a toxic liquid, which can be harmful to predators and cause minor skin irritation in humans.

Body

The body of a millipede is divided into many segments, with most segments having two pairs of legs. The head is rounded and bears a pair of antennae. The body is protected by an exoskeleton, which must be periodically shed and re-grown as the millipede grows in size.

Legs

Each segment of a millipede's body (except for the first three) bears two pairs of legs. The number of leg-bearing segments varies widely, from 11 to over 100, depending on the species.

Reproduction

Millipedes reproduce sexually, with males depositing a spermatophore for the female to take up. In some species, the male has modified legs called gonopods, which are used to transfer the spermatophore to the female.

Behavior and ecology

Millipedes are generally slow-moving detritivores, eating decaying leaves and other dead plant matter. They can be found in a variety of habitats where decaying plant material is abundant, such as forests, savannas, and grasslands.

Human interaction

While millipedes are harmless and non-aggressive towards humans, some species can secrete a toxic liquid which can cause skin irritation. They are often considered pests in greenhouses and gardens where they can cause damage to seedlings.

Taxonomy

Millipedes belong to the class Diplopoda, which is divided into sixteen orders and approximately 140 families. There are an estimated 12,000 species of millipedes worldwide.

See also

• Centipede
• Arthropod
• Invertebrate

References

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