Harpaphe haydeniana
This record describes Harpaphe haydeniana (species). Recorded family: Xystodesmidae. Recorded order: Polydesmida.
Identification and Appearance
see secretes a dark fluid that has an odor similar to the almond extract
Identification notes
see
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Order
- Polydesmida (Flat-backed Millipedes)
- Family
- Xystodesmidae
- Tribe
- Xystodesmini
- Genus
- Harpaphe
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
moist forests
Geographic Range
West Coast: se.AK to Monterey Co., CA to the Sierra Nevada
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Harpaphe haydeniana (Wood 1864)
About Flat-backed Millipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Polydesmida, the group containing Harpaphe haydeniana. 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 Harpaphe haydeniana (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Lynette Elliott; Additional contributions by Rowland Shelley , v belov , biosam
Frequently Asked Questions About Harpaphe haydeniana
What is Harpaphe haydeniana?
Harpaphe haydeniana is a species in the family Xystodesmidae, within the order Polydesmida.
How big is Harpaphe haydeniana?
up to 40 mm
How do you identify Harpaphe haydeniana?
see
Where is Harpaphe haydeniana found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | moist forests |
| Range | West Coast: se.AK to Monterey Co., CA to the Sierra Nevada |