diplophyses

Diplophyses is a genus of diplopods, commonly known as millipedes, belonging to the order Spirobolida. These millipedes are characterized by their robust, cylindrical bodies and their ability to curl into a tight spiral when threatened, a defensive mechanism shared by many millipede species. The term "diplophyes" itself refers to this characteristic of having double pairs of legs on most body segments, a defining feature of the class Diplopoda.

The distribution of diplophyses is primarily found in the Neotropical region, with species identified in various countries across Central and South America. Their habitats typically include moist environments such as leaf litter on forest floors, decaying wood, and soil. They play an important role in these ecosystems as decomposers, breaking down organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil.

While detailed research on each specific species within the genus can vary, general characteristics of diplophyses include a generally dark coloration, often black or dark brown, though some may exhibit reddish or yellowish markings. Their size can also vary depending on the species, but they are generally medium to large-sized millipedes. Reproduction in diplophyses, like other diplopods, involves the male transferring sperm to the female, often using specialized leg structures. The female then lays eggs in the soil.