Abstract:
The ecology of two species of spirostreptoid millipedes and one species of scolopendromorph and two species of geophilomorph centipedes in the southern highlands of Saudi Arabia was studied, with particular reference to their distribution. The species were recorded for the first time in Saudi Arabia. The larval stadia of the two species of millipedes are true soil inhabitants, while the adults are surface living. Most of the larval stadia of both species produce moulting chambers where they diapause during the dry season. The scolopendromorph centipede, Scolopendra morsitans, is a surface active animal and enters the soil through crevices. The other two species of geophilomorph centipedes are more sensitive to changes in humidity than Scolorpendra morsitans and can burrow deep in the soil to continue their activity.
Page(s):
177-182
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Pakistan Journal of Zoology, Volume: 9, Issue: 2, Year: 1977