Metajapyx subterraneus
This record describes Metajapyx subterraneus (species). Recorded family: Japygidae. Recorded order: Dicellurata.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplura
- Order
- Dicellurata
- Family
- Japygidae (Forcepstails)
- Subfamily
- Japyginae
- Genus
- Metajapyx
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
About Dicellurata: the wider group
Order-level background for Dicellurata, the group containing Metajapyx subterraneus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Dicellurata (diplurans/two-pronged bristletails) includes ~1,000 described species. These eyeless, unpigmented arthropods live in soil and under rocks. Some species have forceps-like cerci for catching prey.
Ecological role of the group
Diplurans are both predators and detritivores in soil ecosystems. Japygidae species are active predators that catch springtails and other tiny soil animals with their pincers.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Diplurans have no significant economic impact. They are important model organisms in evolutionary biology - their exact placement in the insect family tree helps scientists understand the origin of insects.
Recorded sources for this group: Soil biology, arthropod phylogenetics. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Metajapyx subterraneus (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by v belov