Peripatopsidae

Peripatopsidae is one of the two extant families of velvet worms (phylum Onychophora), a group of soft-bodied, predatory terrestrial invertebrates. Members of this family are elongated and worm-like, and they rely on slime secreted from oral papillae to capture prey. They possess a fixed number of leg-bearing segments, with many species having a range of leg pairs that typically falls between roughly 15 and 23.

Distribution and habitat

Peripatopsidae occurs primarily in the Southern Hemisphere, with the greatest diversity in Australia and notable representatives in New Zealand, parts of Southeast Asia, and some African and Pacific regions. They favor moist microhabitats such as leaf litter, rotting logs, moss, and soil, and they are largely nocturnal and shy, emerging mainly in damp conditions.

Description and biology

As terrestrial predators, peripatopsids feed on smaller invertebrates. Their slime is produced by specialized glands and ejected through oral papillae to immobilize prey. They have a soft, flexible cuticle and exhibit limited dispersal capability, which contributes to high species turnover and endemism in many areas.

Reproduction and life history

Reproductive modes vary among species in Peripatopsidae, including oviparity (egg-laying) and viviparity (live-bearing). Development is generally direct, with juveniles resembling small adults upon birth or hatching. Some species may show parental care or extended maternal investment, though patterns differ across the family.

Taxonomy and genera

Peripatopsidae comprises several genera, including Peripatopsis (found in southern Africa), Euperipatoides, and Tasmanipatus (both represented in Australia). The family is diverse, with many species describing narrow endemism and specialized habitat requirements.

Conservation

Habitat loss and environmental changes threaten many peripatopsid species, particularly those with restricted ranges. Conservation assessments are limited for many taxa, highlighting the need for habitat protection and further taxonomic study.