Family SCUTIGERELLIDAE Bagnall, 1913

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Introduction

The Scutergerellidae are from 4–8 mm long and are fast runners. Members of this family feed mainly on roots and can cause damage to crops.

Four genera and 21 species are recorded in Australia. Hanseniella, the genus currently with the largest number of species, was at one time considered exclusively a tropical and warm temperate genus but 11 species are recorded from Tasmania.

Diagnosis

Scutigerellidae are characterised by having thick tergites (scuta) with rounded posterior margins, rarely with posterior triangular processes, first pair of legs more than half as long as second pair, large styli at base of legs and with many irregularly distributed marginal setae around the pit insertion of the calicle.

General References

Edwards, C.A. 1990. Symphyla. pp. 891-910 in Dindal, D.A. (ed.). Soil Biology Guide. New York : John Wiley & Sons.

Scheller, U. 1982. Symphyla. pp. 688-689 in Parker, S.P. (ed.). Synopsis and Classification of Living Organisms. New York : McGraw-Hill Book Co. Vol. 2.

History of changes