Geophilomorpha

Geophilomorpha is an order of centipedes in the class Chilopoda, commonly referred to as soil centipedes. Members are elongated and wormlike, with a great number of leg-bearing segments, typically 29 to more than 180 pairs. The numerous segments give them a slender, threadlike appearance that is well suited to life in soil and leaf litter. Most geophilomorphs have small or absent eyes and rely on antennae and tactile cues to navigate. The first pair of legs is modified into forcipules that function as venom-delivering claws, one of the key features distinguishing them from other centipede groups.

Geophilomorphs occur worldwide, but are predominantly soil- and subsoil-dwelling. They inhabit a range of terrestrial microhabitats, including leaf litter, rotting wood, under stones, and in ant or termite nests. Their soft, slender bodies and reduced eyesight reflect adaptation to underground life. They are generally nocturnal and rarely seen, emerging mainly at night or during moist conditions.

They are predatory, feeding on small soil invertebrates, such as insect larvae and other arthropods. They use their forcipules to seize prey and inject venom, aiding in immobilization. Reproduction is sexual, with females laying eggs in soil or giving birth to live young in some species; juveniles hatch looking like miniature adults and undergo multiple molts before reaching full size. Throughout development, they progressively add segments and legs as they molt, typically reaching a species-specific final count of leg pairs.