Akamptogonus novarae
This record describes Akamptogonus novarae (species). Recorded family: Paradoxosomatidae. Recorded order: Polydesmida.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Order
- Polydesmida (Flat-backed Millipedes)
- Family
- Paradoxosomatidae
- Genus
- Akamptogonus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
an Australian species sparsely reported along the coast of California ; also introduced to Hawaii, Tasmania, and New Zealand • "common in Golden Gate Park" ‒Rowland Shelley
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Akamptogonus novarae (Humbert & Saussure 1869)
About Flat-backed Millipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Polydesmida, the group containing Akamptogonus novarae. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Polydesmida (flat-backed millipedes) is the largest millipede order with ~3,500 described species. Many species produce hydrogen cyanide (HCN) as a chemical defense - a strategy unique among arthropods.
Ecological role of the group
Flat-backed millipedes are major leaf litter decomposers in forest ecosystems, recycling calcium, nitrogen, and other nutrients. Their fecal pellets contribute significantly to soil formation and humus production.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Millipedes are generally beneficial decomposers but can occasionally damage seedlings and soft fruits in gardens. Some tropical species cause skin irritation through their cyanide-based defensive secretions.
Recorded sources for this group: Myriapod research, soil ecology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Akamptogonus novarae (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Sam McNally; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , v belov