GeophilomorphaGeophilidae2 data sources

Soil Centipede

Strigamia bidens

This record describes Strigamia bidens (species). Recorded family: Geophilidae. Recorded order: Geophilomorpha.

Identification and Appearance

Soil Centipede - Strigamia bidens
Recorded characteristics
Other recorded terms
  • long
  • bend
  • flexible
  • armor
  • plates
  • legs
  • fast
  • bright
  • under stones

Terms from the source record, grouped for readability. Broad terms such as size or location are not measurements or a confirmed range.

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Chilopoda
Order
Geophilomorpha (Soil Centipedes)
Genus
Strigamia

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

About Soil Centipedes: the wider group

Order-level background for Geophilomorpha, the group containing Strigamia bidens. Species-specific details appear above.

Group overview

Geophilomorpha (soil centipedes) includes ~1,300 described species. They have the most leg pairs of any centipede - up to 191 pairs, always an odd number. They are elongated, eyeless burrowers adapted to life in soil.

Ecological role of the group

Geophilomorphs are important predators in deeper soil layers where most other centipedes cannot reach. Their burrowing activity helps aerate soil and create channels for water infiltration.

Economic and practical significance of the group

Soil centipedes are beneficial soil organisms that prey on insect larvae, earthworms, and other invertebrates. Some species are bioluminescent, producing a greenish glow that may startle predators.

Recorded sources for this group: Myriapod research, soil biology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.

Explore Geophilomorpha families and species →

Photos of Soil Centipede (4)

Soil Centipede - photo 1
Soil Centipede - photo 2
Soil Centipede - photo 3
Soil Centipede - photo 4