Paitobius zinus
This record describes Paitobius zinus (species). Recorded family: Lithobiidae. Recorded order: Lithobiomorpha.
Identification and Appearance
Males distinguished by their greatly enlarged forcipules. Prosternal teeth 2+2. Only the males have the greatly enlarged forcipules, but this distinguishes the species from others in the eastern US
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Chilopoda
- Order
- Lithobiomorpha (Stone Centipedes)
- Family
- Lithobiidae
- Genus
- Paitobius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Forest leaf litter
Geographic Range
sw AL to e VA
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Paitobius zinus (Chamberlin 1911)
About Stone Centipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Lithobiomorpha, the group containing Paitobius zinus. 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 Paitobius zinus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Derek Hennen; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Paitobius zinus
What is Paitobius zinus?
Paitobius zinus is a species in the family Lithobiidae, within the order Lithobiomorpha.
How big is Paitobius zinus?
7.5-10 mm
How do you identify Paitobius zinus?
Males distinguished by their greatly enlarged forcipules. Prosternal teeth 2+2.
Where is Paitobius zinus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Forest leaf litter |
| Range | sw AL to e VA |