Flat-backed Millipede (Male) - Apheloria virginiensis
I enjoy seeing these gorgeous millipedes and thought it would be fun to try to determine sex. I think this is a male and that the structure between its 3rd and 4th pairs of legs are gonopores.
**NOTE: This species secretes cyanide as a defense mechanism. Cyanide is poisonous and can cause extreme irritation if rubbed in the eyes. You should not touch them. Clearly, I handled it to get this photo, but I do not recommend that anyone handles them, i.e. don't follow my example.
Habitat: Moist forest
''Apheloria virginiensis'' is a large North American millipede. It is reported to secrete cyanide compounds as a defense. It is recommended that one wash hands after handling this organism as the toxic compounds it secretes are poisonous and can cause extreme irritation if rubbed in the eyes.
comments (5)
...and very cool shot, dare-devil! Posted 3 years ago
In general, I think that people shouldn't touch things that they are unsure of, especially if they are inexperienced. Personally, I have never had a problem with these millipedes, but you never know. Nature can surprise you and even the most experienced person can have a bad wildlife encounter. But, in the case of this millipede, the risk for me is minor. Posted 3 years ago