Flat-backed Millipede: This Crawling Wonder Can Roll Itself into a Tiny Ball for Protection!

Diplopoda, commonly known as millipedes, are fascinating creatures that inhabit various ecosystems worldwide. They are characterized by their elongated bodies segmented into numerous rings, each bearing two pairs of legs. Within this diverse class lies the Flat-backed Millipede ( Fontaria squamata), a species deserving of our attention.

As its name suggests, the Flat-backed Millipede possesses a flattened dorsal side, distinguishing it from its more rounded millipede relatives. This unique morphology allows them to navigate through narrow crevices and beneath leaf litter with remarkable ease. Their coloration ranges from dark brown to reddish-brown, providing camouflage against the forest floor.

Habitat and Distribution:

Flat-backed Millipedes are predominantly found in damp, forested areas across Europe and parts of Asia. They thrive in environments rich in decaying organic matter, such as fallen logs, leaf litter, and compost piles. Their preference for moisture underscores their vital role in decomposition and nutrient recycling within these ecosystems.

Diet and Feeding Behavior:

Contrary to popular belief, Flat-backed Millipedes are detritivores, meaning they primarily feed on decomposing plant material. They use their strong mandibles to shred leaves, wood fragments, and fungi. This consumption plays a crucial role in breaking down organic matter and releasing nutrients back into the soil. Interestingly, they sometimes engage in cannibalistic behavior when food is scarce, consuming dead or injured individuals within their colony.

Defensive Mechanisms:

When threatened, Flat-backed Millipedes employ an impressive defense mechanism: they curl themselves into a tight spiral, protecting their vulnerable underside. This “pillbug” behavior effectively shields them from predators, who often struggle to penetrate their hard exoskeleton. Additionally, some species secrete a foul-smelling liquid containing cyanide compounds as a deterrent against attackers.

Life Cycle and Reproduction:

The life cycle of a Flat-backed Millipede is marked by distinct stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Females lay their eggs in moist soil or beneath decaying logs. After hatching, the larvae undergo several molts, shedding their exoskeletons as they grow larger. Eventually, they reach maturity and become capable of reproducing.

Flat-backed Millipedes are sexually dimorphic, meaning males and females exhibit physical differences. Males typically possess modified legs used for transferring sperm to females during mating. This process involves a delicate courtship dance, with the male gently stroking the female’s body with his antennae.

Ecological Significance:

As detritivores, Flat-backed Millipedes play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. They contribute to nutrient cycling by breaking down dead plant matter and releasing essential nutrients back into the soil. This process supports plant growth and promotes biodiversity within their habitat.

Their presence also helps regulate populations of other invertebrates, such as insects and fungi. By consuming these organisms, Flat-backed Millipedes prevent them from becoming overly abundant and disrupting the balance of the ecosystem.

Conservation Status:

Currently, Flat-backed Millipedes are not considered to be threatened or endangered. However, habitat loss due to deforestation and urbanization can pose a risk to their populations.

Maintaining healthy forest ecosystems is crucial for ensuring the continued survival of these fascinating creatures. By protecting their habitats and raising awareness about their ecological importance, we can help ensure that future generations have the opportunity to appreciate the wonders of the Flat-backed Millipede.