Howellaria infesta
This record describes Howellaria infesta (species). Recorded family: Xystodesmidae. Recorded order: Polydesmida.
Identification and Appearance
Paranota red-orange, dorsum brown-black. Collum similar. Legs white, antennae dirty yellow.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Order
- Polydesmida (Flat-backed Millipedes)
- Family
- Xystodesmidae
- Tribe
- Rhysodesmini
- Genus
- Howellaria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Leaf litter
Geographic Range
s.VA through the Blue Ridge in NC/TN; an introduced population in Hartford Co., CT
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Decaying leaves
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Howellaria infesta (Chamberlin 1918)
About Flat-backed Millipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Polydesmida, the group containing Howellaria infesta. 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 Howellaria infesta (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov; Additional contributions by DerekHennen
Frequently Asked Questions About Howellaria infesta
What is Howellaria infesta?
Howellaria infesta is a species in the family Xystodesmidae, within the order Polydesmida.
How do you identify Howellaria infesta?
Paranota red-orange, dorsum brown-black. Collum similar. Legs white, antennae dirty yellow.
Where is Howellaria infesta found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Leaf litter |
| Range | s.VA through the Blue Ridge in NC/TN; an introduced population in Hartford Co., CT |
What does Howellaria infesta eat?
The diet of the Howellaria infesta includes Decaying leaves.