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Flat-backed Millipede - Apheloria virginiensis The bright colors exhibited by this species are a warning signal that they secrete cyanide as a defense mechanism. Cyanide is poisonous and can cause extreme irritation if rubbed in the eyes. The millipedes don&#039;t contain a massively powerful amount of cyanide and they do not bite, but nevertheless it is recommended that they not be touched or handled in any way for this reason.<br /> <br /> Habitat: Deciduous forest Apheloria,Apheloria virginiensis,Geotagged,Summer,United States,millipede Click/tap to enlarge

Flat-backed Millipede - Apheloria virginiensis

The bright colors exhibited by this species are a warning signal that they secrete cyanide as a defense mechanism. Cyanide is poisonous and can cause extreme irritation if rubbed in the eyes. The millipedes don't contain a massively powerful amount of cyanide and they do not bite, but nevertheless it is recommended that they not be touched or handled in any way for this reason.

Habitat: Deciduous forest

    comments (2)

  1. View Ferdy Christant's profile
    Ferdy Christant
    Lion
    View Lion class
    Must be hard for you, considering your urge to touch anything and everything :) Posted 3 years ago
    1. View Christine Young's profile
      Christine Young
      Lion
      View Lion class
      You have no idea ;P Posted 3 years ago

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The Apheloria virginiensis

''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.

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Similar species: Polydesmida
Species identified by Christine Young
View Christine Young's profile

By Christine Young

All rights reserved
Uploaded Mar 5, 2022. Captured Jul 14, 2021 11:10 in 91 Main St, Sharon, CT 06069, USA.
country flag of United States of America Explore United States of America 39,948 9,641 8
  • Canon EOS 90D
  • f/13.0
  • 1/197s
  • ISO5000
  • 100mm
Captured in the summer. More summer photos.