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Legs everywhere! This Millipede was rushing across the growth on an old stump. It is a cyanide-producing Millipede (Harpaphe haydeniana). When it is handled it puts off a smell of cyanide (roasted almonds). It has only one predator, the ground beetle Promecognathus laevissimus. Fortunately, this means that the millipede can perform its duty as a “macroshredder,” breaking up plant material and initiating the process of nutrient recycling in the soil ecosystem without having to worry about a whole host of predators. In fact, it plays such an important role in the process that it can be considered to be a “keystone” species.
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Fantastic shot Harold - well executed with the macro. And the story - it was the title that caught my eye at first before I noticed the author - thank you for educating us uninformed. I shall never look at another millipede the same way again!
Love the colours and details. Nice job, Harold. Appreciate the story, too.
He looks quite splendid here and it's interesting to know what an important role these little guys actually play in maintaining the ecosystem. A beautiful and informative image Harold.
Great macro shot Harold. That little beast is very beautyful. Hope I will encounter one this summer.
Thanks, Debra!
Lots of legs for sure, great image Harold. Nice job with the macro.