Summary ²

Apheloria virginiensis is a large North American millipede. It is reported to secrete cyanide compounds as a defense. It is recommended that one wash hands after handling this organism as the toxic compounds it secretes are poisonous and can cause extreme irritation if rubbed in the eyes.

Sources and Credits

1. (c) Paul, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), http://www.flickr.com/photos/81565156@N00/3530936350
2. (c) Wikipedia, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apheloria_virginiensis

More Info

• iNat taxon page
• Animal Diversity Web
• Biodiversity Heritage Library
• BOLD Systems BIN search
• BugGuide
• Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
• Maryland Biodiversity Project
• MilliBase
• NatureServe Explorer 2.0

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