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Pale millipede

Pale millipede

Xystocheir dissecta

A species of Xystocheir

With a secretive lifestyle often beneath the forest leaf litter or within rotting logs, pale millipede is a fascinating organism capable of producing a defensive chemical offering protection against predators. These creatures have a penchant for dining on decaying organic matter, participating in nutrient recycling within their habitat, and contributing to the health of their ecological community. Despite their size, they play a substantial role in the breakdown of plant material, making them critical to soil fertility and forest dynamics.

General Info About Pale millipede
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Attributes of Pale millipede
Colors
Brown
White
Habitat
mountainous area
Adult Food Sources
Rotten wood, leaf litter, fungi, decomposing animal matter, moist decaying plants
Larva Food Source
Decayed leaves, decomposing wood, fungi, dead plant material, organic matter
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Pale millipede can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Predatory
The Pale millipede typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
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Species Status of Pale millipede
It is found in North America.
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Distribution Area of Pale millipede
North America
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Adult Size of Pale millipede
3 cm
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Interesting Facts About Pale millipede
Pale millipede can secrete a defensive chemical that smells like cherries, which deters predators while intriguing human senses.
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Scientific Classification of Pale millipede
Tips for Finding Pale millipede
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Youth Habitat of Pale millipede
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Pale millipede
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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How Can You Attract Pale millipede
Due to pale millipede's detritivorous diet, organic materials such as decaying wood or vegetation may act as effective baits to attract them.
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How and Where Can You Find Pale millipede at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Juvenile pale millipede are often hidden under decaying logs or leaf litter. Search in moist, shaded areas with abundant organic matter where they may feed and hide.
Adult Adult pale millipede can be found on the surfaces of logs, rocks, or the forest floor during their active hours at night. Gently turning over potential hiding spots can reveal their presence while being careful not to harm their habitat.
Are Pale millipede harmful?
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The pale millipede can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.

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Are Pale millipede harmful to humans?

Pale millipede will not actively attack people, but it often secretes toxic liquids for self-defense when under duress. These fluids are usually acidic and irritating to the skin. In addition to causing itching and redness, even herpes and skin necrosis may occur in severe cases. It should be noted that these liquids are very harmful to the eyes and can cause blindness.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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