Millepede: meaning, definitions and examples
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millepede
[ ˈmɪlɪˌpiːd ]
animal classification
A millepede, often referred to as a millipede, is a type of arthropod belonging to the class Diplopoda. These creatures are characterized by having two pairs of jointed legs per body segment, resulting in a long, cylindrical body that can have hundreds of legs. Millipedes are primarily detritivores, meaning they feed on decomposing organic matter.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The millepede curled up when it felt threatened.
- Millipedes play an important role in the ecosystem by breaking down organic material.
- I spotted a colorful millepede in the damp forest floor.
Translations
Translations of the word "millepede" in other languages:
🇵🇹 millepede
🇮🇳 सौपद
🇩🇪 Hundertfüßer
🇮🇩 serangga seribu
🇺🇦 множинник
🇵🇱 milipeda
🇯🇵 ムカデ
🇫🇷 mille-pattes
🇪🇸 milpiés
🇹🇷 kırkayak
🇰🇷 천명
🇸🇦 مئتا قدم
🇨🇿 stonožka
🇸🇰 stonožka
🇨🇳 千足虫
🇸🇮 tisočpatežnik
🇮🇸 þúsundfætla
🇰🇿 мың аяқ
🇬🇪 მილიპედა
🇦🇿 minik
🇲🇽 milpiés
Etymology
The word 'millepede' is derived from the Latin word 'millepedes', which literally translates to 'a thousand feet'. This term reflects the common misconception that these creatures possess a thousand legs, despite most species having far fewer. The term 'millepedes' itself is a combination of 'mille', meaning 'thousand', and 'pedes', meaning 'feet'. Millipedes have been around for millions of years, with fossils dating back to the Carboniferous period. They are commonly found in moist environments and are predominantly nocturnal, spending much of their life hidden beneath leaf litter and logs. Millipedes play a crucial role in the ecosystem, contributing to the decomposition process and enriching the soil. Their evolution is tied to the development of terrestrial life, making them an important group for understanding ecological history.