Choneiulus palmatus
This record describes Choneiulus palmatus (species). Recorded family: Blaniulidae. Recorded order: Julida.
Identification and Appearance
Separated from other introduced Blaniulidae by: native to Europe, introduced in NA and now widespread
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Order
- Julida
- Family
- Blaniulidae
- Genus
- Choneiulus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Soil and leaf litter, under logs in disturbed habitats
Geographic Range
Canada: NS, NF, ON • USA: NY, PA, OH, CO, CT, IL, MD, MN, SD, UT, NV, CA, WA, VA
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Choneiulus palmatus (Nĕmec 1895)
About Julida: the wider group
Order-level background for Julida, the group containing Choneiulus palmatus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Julida is the largest millipede order in temperate regions with ~750 described species. The spotted snake millipede (Blaniulus guttulatus) is a common garden species across Europe and North America.
Ecological role of the group
Julid millipedes are critical soil engineers that fragment leaf litter and mix organic material into deeper soil layers. They consume their own fecal pellets (coprophagy) to extract maximum nutrients from plant material.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Some Julida species are significant agricultural pests - the spotted snake millipede damages strawberries, sugar beet, potatoes, and other root crops by feeding on seeds and seedlings.
Recorded sources for this group: Agricultural entomology, soil ecology research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Choneiulus palmatus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Derek Hennen; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Choneiulus palmatus
What is Choneiulus palmatus?
Choneiulus palmatus is a species in the family Blaniulidae, within the order Julida.
How big is Choneiulus palmatus?
Length 5‒14 mm, width 0.4‒0.6 mm; ring count 25‒58
How do you identify Choneiulus palmatus?
Separated from other introduced Blaniulidae by:
Where is Choneiulus palmatus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Soil and leaf litter, under logs in disturbed habitats |
| Range | Canada: NS, NF, ON • USA: NY, PA, OH, CO, CT, IL, MD, MN, SD, UT, NV, CA, WA, VA |