fantiulus

Fantiulus is a genus of millipedes belonging to the family Paradoxosomatidae. The genus was first described by Carl Attems in 1934. Millipedes in this genus are characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, which are typically dark in color. They possess a pair of long, slender antennae and a pair of short, stubby legs on each segment of their body.

Fantiulus species are found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. They are known for their slow movement and are often encountered under rocks, logs, or other debris. These millipedes are detritivores, feeding on decaying plant material and other organic matter.

The genus Fantiulus includes several species, with the most well-known being Fantiulus pygmaeus. This species is native to Europe and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. Fantiulus pygmaeus is often used in scientific research due to its relatively simple nervous system and well-understood behavior.

Despite their small size and slow movement, millipedes in the genus Fantiulus play an important role in their ecosystems by contributing to nutrient cycling and decomposition. They are also of interest to researchers studying the evolution of millipede behavior and nervous system development.