Millipedes that produce cyanide? Tales of the Yellow Spotted Millipede.

Millipedes are often underestimated in terms of their contributions and their specialties. They are however far more intriguing than given credit for and play an important role throughout our ecosystem. Today's focus will be on the yellow-spotted millipede (Harpaphe haydeniana) that not only have abilities unlike any other millipede but are pertinent to a flourishing ecosystem.

Did you know?

The name millipede derives from the Latin words "mille" and "ped" which when combined, means "thousand feet" although millipedes have an average of 300 legs!

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Habitat and Evolution of the Yellow-Spotted Millipede

If one were to look for these fuzzy yellow spotted millipedes, one would generally be able to locate them along the pacific coast of North America. Their ideal habitat is moist redwood and Douglas-fir forest floors however, they didn't always reside on the land. Millipedes are said to be one of the oldest creatures on land, with fossil evidence suggesting they've been on this land for approximately 420 million years, during the Silurian Period. Theories over the years have been insinuating that millipedes have evolved from ancestors that initially resided in the water, then evolved into large invertebrates living on land. Evolution not only permitted them to thrive on land, but theories suggest that it also permitted certain millipedes, such as the yellow-spotted millipede to secrete certain toxic substances out of protection!

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Beware of the Cyanide!

It is important to note that picking up a yellow-spotted millipede may cause it to feel threatened, ultimately beginning to secrete cyanide, a potent and toxic chemical that generally can be deadly. Don't worry however because the millipede is unable to secrete an amount that is lethal to humans, at most it will cause irritation. This faith is not the same for many animals though as it can be toxic to many animals, e.g. birds and small mammals. This is the defence mechanism for these millipedes, deterring many animals from eating them.

Importance to the Ecosystem

Their contributions generally come from what they are inclined to eat. As detrivores, they feed off of dead leaves and decaying logs. The younger ones on the other hand feed off of humus (organic material in the soil, typically from decaying plants and animals). The feces they then excrete contain tons of essential nutrients that are recycled back into the soil to be used again throughout other processes and food chains. This ability to recycle is why millipedes are so dire and must be protected!

The Threats They Face

Fortunately, the yellow-spotted millipede is not currently threatened or endangered. However, certain events that are currently happening will inevitably begin adversely affecting this species. These include...

• Deforestation: This will make it harder for them to find food since they feed off of fallen leaves and decaying logs.

• Climate Change: This will lead to droughts which will inhibit their ability to thrive since their ideal habitat are moist areas.

• Forest fires: This will damage this species' habitat, resources etc.

We must begin making an effort to protect not just yellow-spotted millipedes but all the various millipedes because of how vital they are to the flourishing life on earth! By using natural resources much more responsibly and reducing emissions, we can protect all kinds of animal and plant species from hardships and create a hindrance toward the path of extinction for many of these species!

Written by: Samiha Ahsan

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