Millipede
Classification
Scientific name: Ommatoiulus moreletii
Description
Black and shiny in colour, these Millipedes have a longcylindrical shape and are multi-segmented. Typically,they reach 20-45mm and are distinguished by thelarge number of legs which usually number in thehundreds. They are known for their habit of curlinginto a flat spiral for protection. A Portuguese native, the Black Portuguese Millipedewas introduced into Australia in the 1950s. As herbivores, these pests enjoy decaying plant matter and are most commonly found in leaf litter,decaying wood or mulch. They live in woodlands and grasslands but also like gardens whichprovide a variety of different preferred habitats.
Behavior
The Black Portuguese Millipede is an invasive pest species and normally assembles in very largenumbers. Millipedes are most active in autumn and typically, an infestation can be expected afterthe first rains, following a drought or dry spell. They are also visible in spring when thetemperatures begin to rise. The female lays her eggs in a small hole in the soil and when the juveniles emerge, they gothrough a considerable number of moults before reaching maturity in 2 years’ time. Portuguese Millipedes have a series of glands running all along the underside of their body whichsecrete a yellow liquid with a strong odour when they are agitated.
Risks
More of a nuisance than a threat, Portuguese Black Millipedes can be distressing due to theirability to invade in their thousands. They are active and visible at night but are drawn to the light which encourages them to enterbuildings - where they can damage carpets, furniture, curtains and bedding with their pungent