A species of millipede thought to be extinct for 84 years has finally been found again! The creature is named Illacme plenipes (meaning “the acme of plentiful legs”), is only about three centimeters long and is reported to have up to 750 legs! Most millipedes only have up to 100 legs, so this is the first millipede who lives up to its name!
The Illacme plenipes is able to spin silk from long hairs on its back thus creating a sort of “clothing” for itself! They also have very large antennae which is used to feel the way in darkness and their legs have adapted to act as claws allowing them to cling to rocks. The Illacme plenipes also have invisible exoskeletons and their mouths are designed to pierce and suck plant tissue.
Unfortunately, the habitats of the Illacme plenipes are being destroyed so there is a chance that this strange, wonderful and long thought to be extinct creature may actually become extinct soon. Hopefully, we can study them and learn more about them to prevent their demise!
(Photos by Paul Marek)