Geophilus algarum explained

Geophilus algarum is a species of centipede in the family Geophilidae found in the littoral zone on the French Atlantic and Channel Coasts.[1] [2] It has one subspecies, G. algarum var. decipiens, which can be identified by lack of a dorsal coxal pore. The male of this species has 53 pairs of legs; females have 53 to 59.[3] This species can reach 35 mm in length.

Taxonomy

G. algarum shares several characteristics with both G. fucorum and G. gracilis, leading some to believe that the three are a single polytypic species consisting of highly individual subspecies. G. algarum is differentiated from the other two centipedes by having two labral teeth, a clear clypeal area, 8–12 prehensorial teeth, three ventral (posterior) and one dorsal coxal pore, and a well-developed claw of the anal leg.[4]

Notes and References

  1. Barber . Anthony D. . Littoral myriapods: a review . Soil Organisms . 2009 . 81 . 3 . 735–760 . 3 November 2021.
  2. Web site: Geophilus algarum Brölemann, 1909 . World Resister of Marine Species . 3 November 2021.
  3. Book: Brolemann, H.W. . Élements d'une faune de France – Chilopodes . Imprimerie Toulousaine . 1930 . 171 . French.
  4. Lewis . J.G.E . The Ecology, Taxonomy, and Distribution of the Centipedes Found on the Shore in the Plymouth Area . Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom . 1962 . 42 . 3 . 655–664 . 10.1017/S0025315400054333 . 3 November 2021.