An interesting take on millipede reproduction

Quick question, What is the difference between a millipede and a centipede? Answer: Millipedes which usually have higher number of more divided segment have two sets of legs per segment positioned. Centipedes with less divided segment have one set of legs per segment. Now millipede legs are directly under their body, while centipede legs are at the sides. Also centipede are more dangerous and poisonous and can feed on other animals and insect, while millipedes mostly feed on decomposing plants.

Today we would be focusing millipede.

Now, I know what you're thinking – millipedes, those tiny creatures that seem to have more legs than the population of a small town? Yes, those very same. But hold onto your magnifying glasses, because these little crawlers are about to take you on a rollercoaster ride of reproductive mystery that will leave you both amazed and possibly slightly disturbed.

^{Image source designed on canva}

Now let say you're sitting in your garden, sipping on your favorite beverage, when you notice a millipede casually strolling by. Little do you know that beneath those seemingly mundane movements lies a world of complex courtship rituals that put some telenovelas to shame. These millipedes have a sense of romance that would make even Shakespeare blush.

It all starts with a symphony of courtship – yes, you heard me right, a symphony. For millipedes, courtship isn't just a casual encounter; it's a full-on performance. Antennae twitching, legs shimmying, and chemical cues in the air – it's like a disco night in the insect world. They've got moves that could rival any ballroom dancer, all in the name of finding the perfect match.

But wait, it gets even better (or weirder, depending on your perspective). Once the dance is done, it's time for the main event: the dance of shame mating. Oh yes, these millipedes take mating to a whole new level. From intricate choreography that involves intertwining their bodies to forming heart-shaped formations, it's like a synchronized swimming routine that would make the Olympics proud. Move over, swans – millipedes are the true masters of elegant partnering.

And just when you thought you'd seen it all, enter the cascade of eggs. Unlike mammals, which go for the live birth approach, millipedes are all about the egg-laying game. But not just any eggs – we're talking about eggs that are meticulously placed in carefully selected locations, each with its own VIP treatment of humidity, temperature, and substrate. It's like they're raising the next generation in a five-star hotel for insects.

But here's where it gets even more intriguing. You know how in most species, fathers are usually the "Oops, I forgot it was diaper-changing day" type? Well, not in the millipede world. Some male millipedes take the role of protector and caregiver to a whole new level. Picture this: a male forming a secret chamber around the eggs, like a master craftsman building a fortress. He stands guard, ready to fend off any potential threats, turning "deadbeat dad" stereotypes on their heads.

And let's not forget the metamorphosis and new beginnings. As the millipede embryos undergo their transformation, it's like they're participating in a reality show called "Extreme Makeover: Arthropod Edition." From egg to juvenile, these little creatures put on a show of resilience that would make even the toughest superhero shed a tear.

Oh, and did I mention the group dynamics? Just when you thought you'd seen it all, juvenile millipedes decide to throw a curveball by forming clusters. It's like they're having their own mini millipede meet-up, discussing the latest trends in leg fashion and sharing tips on how to navigate the jungle of life.

But wait, there's more! Not all millipedes are fans of group therapy. Some prefer the solo life, strutting their stuff independently and forging their own paths in the world. It's like a millipede version of "Eat, Pray, Love," where each millipede embarks on a personal journey of growth and self-discovery.

So there you have it, my fellow adventurers. The world of millipedes is not just about legs and undulations – it's a tale of courtship symphonies, shameless dancing, protective fatherhood, and a whole lot of leggy charm. As you venture out into the world, remember that beneath every rock, leaf, and damp corner, a world of bizarre wonders awaits – a world where millipedes steal the show with their epic reproductive sagas.

Thanks for reading, Sayonara 🖐️

• https://scitechdaily.com/how-millipedes-actually-do-it-scientists-finally-figure-out-mystery-of-millipede-mating/
• https://www.epa.gov/ipm/millipedes-and-schools
• https://animalcorner.org/animals/millipedes/
• https://brill.com/view/journals/ctoz/91/4-5/article-p261_002.xml?language=en
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/millipede

^{Image used in thumbnail design by Anna Lehmann from Pixabay}