Schendyla nemorensis
This record describes Schendyla nemorensis (species). Recorded family: Schendylidae. Recorded order: Geophilomorpha.
Identification and Appearance
The terminal legs have an inflated appearance and lack tarsal claws. One of the most common geophilomorph centipedes in the northeast, but often overlooked due to its small size. Identification from images often requires a close-up view of the terminal legs as the absence of tarsal claws on the terminal legs will readily distinguish this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Chilopoda
- Order
- Geophilomorpha (Soil Centipedes)
- Family
- Schendylidae
- Genus
- Schendyla
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Subterranean.
Geographic Range
Holarctic.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Small invertebrates.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Schendyla nemorensis (C.L. Koch 1837)
About Soil Centipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Geophilomorpha, the group containing Schendyla nemorensis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Geophilomorpha (soil centipedes) includes ~1,300 described species. They have the most leg pairs of any centipede - up to 191 pairs, always an odd number. They are elongated, eyeless burrowers adapted to life in soil.
Ecological role of the group
Geophilomorphs are important predators in deeper soil layers where most other centipedes cannot reach. Their burrowing activity helps aerate soil and create channels for water infiltration.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Soil centipedes are beneficial soil organisms that prey on insect larvae, earthworms, and other invertebrates. Some species are bioluminescent, producing a greenish glow that may startle predators.
Recorded sources for this group: Myriapod research, soil biology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Schendyla nemorensis (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ben Coulter; Additional contributions by v belov , Joseph DeSisto Alling
Frequently Asked Questions About Schendyla nemorensis
What is Schendyla nemorensis?
Schendyla nemorensis is a species in the family Schendylidae, within the order Geophilomorpha.
How big is Schendyla nemorensis?
Typically less than 2 cm and very skinny, even for geophilomorphs, although I have seen longer specimens.
How do you identify Schendyla nemorensis?
The terminal legs have an inflated appearance and lack tarsal claws.
Where is Schendyla nemorensis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Subterranean. |
| Range | Holarctic. |
What does Schendyla nemorensis eat?
The diet of the Schendyla nemorensis includes Small invertebrates..