Millipedes are among the most ancient of animals in all of Creation, and more than 12,000 species populate the planet. Only one known species actually has a thousand (or more) feet as the translation of their name from Latin would imply, with most boasting anywhere between 40 and 400 legs – still a number huge enough to be deserving of all the jokes told of them being late for some event or another due to the time it takes to tie their shoelaces…
Millipedes feed on a wide range of decaying organic material, playing a massively important role in the nutrient cycle of the ecosystems in which they occur, ranging from tropical forests to deserts. Depending on the species females may lay up to 300 eggs, which hatch after a few weeks. The tiny hatchlings usually have only 6 legs, adding more segments and legs to their body every time they moult. Some species of millipede may live for up to 10 years.
The most endearing trait exhibited by most species of Millipede, and also the primary protection measure they employ, is to roll into a tight coil that protects their legs and undersides. Others again may start wriggling manically to imitate a snake! Many species also excrete a noxious substance that make them unpalatable for almost all predators.
Millipedes range in size from tiny 2mm midgets to giants of 35cm in length.
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