Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Muskan Arora
Researchers from the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia have identified a new genus and five new species of millipedes in the remote jungles of Tanzania, Southeast Africa, said a report by New York Post.
The research, conducted in the Udzungwa Mountains of Tanzania, involved extensive exploration of tree and vine growth by an international team of scientists.
USC Professor Andy Marshall noted that the appearance of the newly discovered millipedes' heads resembles characters from the Star Wars series, highlighting the distinctiveness of these creatures.
Each of the recently found millipedes possesses approximately 200 legs and measures several centimeters in length. The largest African millipedes can reach lengths of up to 35 centimeters.
These millipedes play a crucial role in determining theories on forest recovery, serving as indicators of forest health. The research aims to understand the impact of vines on forest recovery processes.
Professor Marshall expressed surprise at the discovery of these new species, emphasizing the significance of ongoing exploration in tropical forests.
The discovery of the new millipede genus and species underscores the vastness of our knowledge about tropical forests and the biodiversity they harbour.
The new genus and species were officially described in the European Journal of Taxonomy under the title "A mountain of millipedes." Five new species were identified, now housed in the Danish Museum of Natural History.
The project, funded by the Australian Research Council, seeks to understand global forest recovery processes following significant disturbances.
The discovery of these creepy, alien-like creatures with 200 legs highlights the ongoing efforts of scientists to explore and understand the biodiversity of remote regions, contributing to our understanding of ecosystems worldwide.