Flat-backed Millipede

Scientific Name: Polydesmida (Order)

Order & Family: Order: Polydesmida; Multiple families (e.g., Paradoxosomatidae, Polydesmidae)

Size: Typically 10mm to 30mm (approx. 0.4 to 1.2 inches) in length.

Flat-backed Millipede

Natural Habitat

Found in leaf litter, under stones, rotting logs, and moist garden soil with high organic matter.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivores; they primarily consume decaying plant material, leaf litter, and occasionally fungi or moss.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and slow-moving; they lack eyes and navigate via antennae. They are characterized by 'paranota' (lateral expansions) that make them look flat. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis, gaining segments and legs as they molt.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients. They are generally harmless to humans, though many species secrete cyanide-based liquid as a defense that can irritate skin or eyes if handled.

Identified on: 3/12/2026