Pseudopolydesmus erasus
This record describes Pseudopolydesmus erasus (species). Recorded family: Polydesmidae. Recorded order: Polydesmida.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Order
- Polydesmida (Flat-backed Millipedes)
- Family
- Polydesmidae
- Genus
- Pseudopolydesmus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Leaf litter, under logs
Geographic Range
se US (AL, GA, IL, KY, MS, NC, SC, TN)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Pseudopolydesmus erasus (Loomis 1943)
About Flat-backed Millipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Polydesmida, the group containing Pseudopolydesmus erasus. 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.