Orthomorpha coarctata
This record describes Orthomorpha coarctata (species). Recorded family: Paradoxosomatidae. Recorded order: Polydesmida.
Identification and Appearance
Body dark brown to black in adults. Mid-body paranota (segments 8-9) are sharp posteriorly, extending beyond segment margin. Male gonopod on 7th segment long and slender, reaching posterior legs of 5th segment.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Order
- Polydesmida (Flat-backed Millipedes)
- Family
- Paradoxosomatidae
- Genus
- Orthomorpha
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
Native to SE Asia, widely introduced; in NA, FL‒LA‒TX ‒ map
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Orthomorpha coarctata (Saussure 1860)
About Flat-backed Millipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Polydesmida, the group containing Orthomorpha coarctata. 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 Orthomorpha coarctata (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Will Chatfield-Taylor; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov , biosam
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthomorpha coarctata
What is Orthomorpha coarctata?
Orthomorpha coarctata is a species in the family Paradoxosomatidae, within the order Polydesmida.
How big is Orthomorpha coarctata?
Up to 20 mm
How do you identify Orthomorpha coarctata?
Body dark brown to black in adults. Mid-body paranota (segments 8-9) are sharp posteriorly, extending beyond segment margin. Male gonopod on 7th segment long and slender, reaching posterior legs of 5th segment.
Where is Orthomorpha coarctata found?
Range: Native to SE Asia, widely introduced; in NA, FL‒LA‒TX ‒ map