Stemmiulida is an order of consisting of approximately 130 species, reaching up to 50 mm in length. It contains a single family, Stemmiulidae.
Description
Stemmiulids are small to medium sized millipedes, reaching a maximum length of 50 mm (2 in). The body tapers gradually, and is laterally compressed, so is taller than wide. A dorsal groove is present and runs from head to tail. The eyes consist of two large
ocelli on each side of the head, and some members are capable of jumping.
The living species lack Tömösváry organs, although a fossil species from the
Miocene epoch possesses them.
Classification
Stemmiluda contains 6-10 living genera and at least one fossil genus, all in the family Stemmiulidae. Species estimates range from about 120 to 150 species.
The taxonomy is controversial, with some authors lumping species into as few as three genera.
[ The most liberal classification is presented below.]
