3 New Centipede Species Discovered in S. India, Taking Total to 23

Scientists have discovered three new centipede species in South India, expanding the country's known species tally under the genus Rhysida to 23.

Researchers from the Western Ghat Regional Centre of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) in Kozhikode and Malabar Christian College led the groundbreaking study. The findings underline the rich and largely undocumented biodiversity of the Western Ghats hotspot.

How Researchers Uncovered the New Species

The scientific team analyzed uncatalogued centipede specimens stored in ZSI’s National Zoological Collection. Using digital cameras and high-precision microscopes, scientists carefully examined subtle structural features.

Morphological Traits Evaluated:

• Tarsal and Tibial Spurs: Distinctive spine arrangements across leg segments.
• Coxopleural Spines: Unique rear structural characteristics.
• Body Segments & Antennae: Specific segment counts and antennal article divisions.

The team cross-referenced their findings with global taxonomic databases, including ChiloBase 2.0, confirming three completely unique species.

Profiles of the Three Newly Named Centipedes

1. Rhysida quadrispinosa

Researchers named this species after its distinctive physical feature. The term quadrispinosa refers to the four ventrolateral spines located on the prefemur of its ultimate legs. It also possesses 18 antennal articles and clear body-segment margination starting from tergites 7–11.

2. Rhysida coorgensis

This species takes its name from Coorg (Kodagu) in Karnataka, where collectors originally gathered the specimen. While it superficially resembles Rhysida ikhalama, key variations in its dorsal plate sutures and coxopleural spine arrangements confirm it as a distinct species.

3. Rhysida neyyarensis

Discovered in Kerala's Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary, this centipede features two tarsal spurs on legs 1 through 19, alongside a unique spine formula on its ultimate legs.

Ecological Significance of the Discovery

Centipedes serve as top predatory invertebrates in forest floor ecosystems. They control pest populations and maintain nutrient cycles within soil and leaf litter.

This discovery proves the value of preserving historical museum collections. By re-examining preserved specimens, taxonomists can unlock hidden biodiversity without disturbing living wild populations in threatened habitats.