Polyxenus lagurus

Polyxenus lagurus, also known as the bristly millipede, is a species of millipede in the family Polyxenidae. This millipede is common in Europe and found in many areas of North America. Like other species in the genus Polyxenus, this species is small and covered with detachable bristles that can entangle ants and spiders that attack the millipede. This species is notable for including populations that are parthenogenetic as well as those that reproduce sexually. This small millipede ranges from 2 mm to 4 mm in length and from 0.5 mm to 1.0 mm in width. The adults of this species feature ten tergites and 13 pairs of legs. The body has a flat shape and a pale brown color and is covered with brown bristles. These bristles are arranged in two transverse rows with lateral tufts on each segment, including the head and collum, lateral tufts on each pleurite but the first, and two long brushes on the posterior end of the telson. The genital openings are located behind the second leg pair. In populations that reproduce sexually, the females are slightly larger than the males.