Lithobius microps
This record describes Lithobius microps (species). Recorded family: Lithobiidae. Recorded order: Lithobiomorpha.
Identification and Appearance
The most similar common species is Lamyctes emarginatus , which is the same size and also has 25 antennal segments. However, Lamyctes doesn't have spines on its legs like Lithobius , and has only a single ocellus on each side of the head.
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
Habitat
In soil.
Geographic Range
Holarctic. Probably introduced from Europe.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Soil invertebrates.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Lithobius (Sigibius) microps Meinert 1868
About Stone Centipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Lithobiomorpha, the group containing Lithobius microps. 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 microps (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Joseph DeSisto Alling; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Lithobius microps
What is Lithobius microps?
Lithobius microps is a species in the family Lithobiidae, within the order Lithobiomorpha.
How big is Lithobius microps?
<10 mm
How do you identify Lithobius microps?
The most similar common species is Lamyctes emarginatus , which is the same size and also has 25 antennal segments. However, Lamyctes doesn't have spines on its legs like Lithobius , and has only a single ocellus on each side of the head.
Where is Lithobius microps found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | In soil. |
| Range | Holarctic. Probably introduced from Europe. |
What does Lithobius microps eat?
The diet of the Lithobius microps includes Soil invertebrates..