Rhinotus purpureus
This record describes Rhinotus purpureus (species). Recorded family: Siphonotidae. Recorded order: Polyzoniida.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Diplopoda
- Order
- Polyzoniida
- Family
- Siphonotidae
- Genus
- Rhinotus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
native to the Caribbean, adventive in our area (Louisiana, so.Florida)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Siphonotus purpureus Pocock 1894
About Polyzoniida: the wider group
Order-level background for Polyzoniida, the group containing Rhinotus purpureus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Polyzoniida includes ~130 described species of small, blind millipedes. These elongated millipedes secrete sticky defensive compounds from their body surface.
Ecological role of the group
These small millipedes contribute to decomposition of fine organic matter in forest soils. Their chemical defenses include terpene-based compounds being studied for potential pharmaceutical applications.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Polyzoniid millipedes have no economic impact. They are uncommon and primarily found in leaf litter in forests.
Recorded sources for this group: Myriapod research, chemical ecology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Rhinotus purpureus (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Derek Hennen; Additional contributions by Vox Sciurorum , v belov