Lithobius melanops
This record describes Lithobius melanops (species). Recorded family: Lithobiidae. Recorded order: Lithobiomorpha.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Chilopoda
- Order
- Lithobiomorpha (Stone Centipedes)
- Family
- Lithobiidae
- Genus
- Lithobius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
native to and widespread across Europe, adventive in NA
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lithobius melanops Newport 1845
About Stone Centipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Lithobiomorpha, the group containing Lithobius melanops. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Lithobiomorpha (stone centipedes) includes ~1,500 described species. They are the most common centipedes in temperate regions, frequently found under stones, logs, and leaf litter in gardens.
Ecological role of the group
Stone centipedes are important soil predators that regulate populations of springtails, mites, and other small arthropods. Unlike many centipedes, females guard their eggs until hatching - a form of maternal care.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Stone centipedes are beneficial garden predators that help control pest insects, slugs, and other invertebrates. They are harmless to humans despite their venomous bite capability.
Recorded sources for this group: Myriapod research, soil ecology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Lithobius melanops (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joseph DeSisto Alling; Additional contributions by Nick Block , v belov