Austrostrophus `DIP053`
Spirobolids are a species rich order of millipedes, largely found in the north and east of the continent, in forested areas. In Western Australia they are also found in the Pilbara and likely harbour significant undescribed species diversity.
They are recognisable by a suture that runs vertically down the front of the head. In males, pairs of legs on the seventh segment are modified into gonopods. Spirobolids are smooth, cylindrical millipedes and are often colourful.
Morphology
Species are distinguished by the morphology of the male sexual structures, the gonopods.
Evolution
This genus has only a single species described from it, Austrostrophus stictopygus, found in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. However, ongoing molecular and morphological work at the WA Museum has revealed significant species diversity in this genus, and potential new genera.
Method of reproduction
Sexual
Habitat
Terrestrial
This species was found in leaf litter in the gorges of Karijini National Park.
Distribution
Karijini National Park.
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
|---|---|
| Phylum: | Arthropoda |
| Subphylum: | Myriapoda |
| Class: | Diplopoda |
| Subclass: | Helminthomorpha |
| Order: | Spirobolida |
| Family: | Trigoniulidae |
| Genus: | Austrostrophus |
| Species: | `DIP053` |
| Rank: | species |
|---|---|
| Commercial Impact: | None |
| Conservation Assessment: | Least Concern |
Cite this page
Western Australian Museum Collections https://museum.wa.gov.au/online-collections/names/austrostrophus-dip053
Accessed 31 Aug 2023
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