Litiulus Explained

Litiulus is a genus of millipedes of the order Julida. It is monotypic, with the only species Litiulus alaskanus. It feeds primarily on fruiting fungal bodies, and occasionally species of slime molds. It thrives in northeastern Pacific old growth rainforests. It may be uniquely adapted to be hardier than other species of millipedes that share its range, with an ability to endure harsher and drier climates.[1]

Range

Litiulus alaskanus can be found from Tlingit territory towards its northern extent to Haida territory towards its southern extent.[2]

Habitat

Litiulus alaskanus grows in northeastern Pacific coastal evergreen rainforests. It flourishes in wet, hypermaritime forested ecosystems where fungi grow in abundance.

Etymology

Litiulus alaskanus translates to "Alaskan beach" in Latin.

Notes and References

  1. Isobel A . Pearsall . UTILITY OF GROUND BEETLES (COLEOPTERA: CARABIDAE) AS INDICATOR SPECIES FOR MONITORING BIODIVERSITY EFFECTS FROM VARIABLE RETENTION HARVESTING PRACTICES . BC Forest Science Program . January 2006 . 127 .
  2. 1014100. Litiulus alaskanus. 2023-12-03.