Apheloria virginiensis

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.
Flat-backed Millipede - Apheloria virginiensis Habitat: Mixed forest Apheloria virginiensis,Fall,Geotagged,United States,apheloria,millipede

Predators

''Apheloria virginiensis'' serves as a host to the parasitic fungus ''Arthrophaga myriapodina'', which causes infected individuals to climb to an elevated spot before death.

References:

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Taxonomy
KingdomAnimalia
DivisionArthropoda
ClassDiplopoda
OrderPolydesmida
FamilyXystodesmidae
GenusApheloria
SpeciesA. virginiensis