
Community identification
Greenhouse Millipede
Oxidus gracilis
- Order & Family
- Order Polydesmida, Family Paradoxosomatidae
- Size
- 18 to 23 mm (0.7 to 0.9 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Damp environments such as leaf litter, mulch, greenhouses, and gardens; often found under rocks or flower pots.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivore; feeds on decaying organic matter, rotting wood, and occasionally soft plant tissues or seedlings.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and moisture-dependent; they exhibit a 'swarming' behavior after heavy rains. They lack eyes and rely on antennae for navigation.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits the ecosystem by decomposing organic matter. They are harmless to humans, though they can release a foul-smelling liquid (hydrogen cyanide) to deter predators, which can irritate skin or eyes if handled.