Nannaria terricola
This record describes Nannaria terricola (species). Recorded family: Xystodesmidae. Recorded order: Polydesmida.
Identification and Appearance
Greenish black to olive gray, lateral lamina, legs and under side of body dirty white. Anal scutum triangular, very acute behind; ten long hairs on anal valves two-thirds to three-fourths the length of the anal scutum. Feet slender, pilose.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Order
- Polydesmida (Flat-backed Millipedes)
- Family
- Xystodesmidae
- Tribe
- Nannariini
- Genus
- Nannaria
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
All larval stages and early adult life passed deep (2‒4 inches) in soil, where the color is almost pure white. Adults found under leaves in spring and autumn; show various stages of transformation from larval to mature coloration.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Nannaria terricola (Williams & Hefner 1928)
About Flat-backed Millipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Polydesmida, the group containing Nannaria terricola. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nannaria terricola
What is Nannaria terricola?
Nannaria terricola is a species in the family Xystodesmidae, within the order Polydesmida.
How do you identify Nannaria terricola?
Greenish black to olive gray, lateral lamina, legs and under side of body dirty white. Anal scutum triangular, very acute behind; ten long hairs on anal valves two-thirds to three-fourths the length of the anal scutum. Feet slender, pilose.
What is the life cycle of a Nannaria terricola?
All larval stages and early adult life passed deep (2‒4 inches) in soil, where the color is almost pure white. Adults found under leaves in spring and autumn; show various stages of transformation from larval to mature coloration.