Tuhattajalkaiset

Tuhattajalkaiset, also known as millipedes, are a group of arthropods belonging to the class Diplopoda. They are characterized by their elongated bodies, which are divided into numerous segments, each bearing a pair of legs. The name "tuhattajalkaiset" translates to "thousand-legged" in Finnish, reflecting the large number of legs these creatures possess. The number of legs can vary greatly among species, ranging from a few dozen to over a thousand.

Millipedes are found in various habitats worldwide, including forests, grasslands, and even in aquatic environments. They play a role in the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients. Their diet primarily consists of decaying plant material, but some species are omnivorous or even carnivorous.

The study of millipedes is known as millipedeology. These creatures have a unique reproductive system, with males often transferring sperm to females through a specialized structure called a gonopore. Millipedes are also known for their ability to regenerate lost body parts, a trait that has made them subjects of interest in biological research.

Despite their name, not all millipedes have a thousand legs. The term is a misnomer, as the number of legs can vary significantly among species. The name "millipede" comes from the Latin "mille" meaning thousand and "pes" meaning foot, reflecting the large number of legs these creatures possess.