American giant millipedes
Scientific name: Narceus
American giant millipedes
Scientific name: Narceus
Photo By Micha L. Rieser , used under Attribution /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Members of the genus Narceus are often mistakenly feared for their size and appearance, but these gentle giants of the millipede world are primarily decomposers, playing a crucial role in their ecosystems. Contrary to the unsettling myths, Narceus species do not bite or sting but defend themselves through the secretion of a harmless, foul-smelling fluid. This defense mechanism is effective against predators but almost harmless to humans.
Species of American giant millipedes
Photo By Micha L. Rieser , used under Attribution /Cropped and compressed from original