Zygethobius pontis
This record describes Zygethobius pontis (species). Recorded family: Henicopidae. Recorded order: Lithobiomorpha.
Identification and Appearance
Legs lack any spurs (separating from Lithobiidae); antennae with 43 articles; 3+3 prosternal teeth; tergites 6, 7, 9, 11, 13 produced. Posterior legs long and thin, especially 15th pair.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Chilopoda
- Order
- Lithobiomorpha (Stone Centipedes)
- Family
- Henicopidae
- Genus
- Zygethobius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Leaf litter
Geographic Range
Appalachian Mts, PA-NC
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Zygethobius pontis Chamberlin 1911
About Stone Centipedes: the wider group
Order-level background for Lithobiomorpha, the group containing Zygethobius pontis. 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 Zygethobius pontis (3)
Photo credits: Contributed by Derek Hennen; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Zygethobius pontis
What is Zygethobius pontis?
Zygethobius pontis is a species in the family Henicopidae, within the order Lithobiomorpha.
How big is Zygethobius pontis?
10-15 mm
How do you identify Zygethobius pontis?
Legs lack any spurs (separating from Lithobiidae); antennae with 43 articles; 3+3 prosternal teeth; tergites 6, 7, 9, 11, 13 produced. Posterior legs long and thin, especially 15th pair.
Where is Zygethobius pontis found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Leaf litter |
| Range | Appalachian Mts, PA-NC |