Millipede

Moved

… John F. Carr, 2 November, 2010 - 1:15am

It is Xystodesmidae (Polydesm

It is Xystodesmidae (Polydesmida) probably a species of Sigmoria, but this can't be determined from the photo. These, and all polydesmidan millipeds, secrete HCN (hydrogen cyanide) in their defensive secretions, but the cherry smell derives from benzaldehyde, a byproduct in the biosynthetic pathway that generates HCN. I love the cherry/almond scent and smell every xystodesmid I collect and have done so for 39 years as of now. Despite the toxicity of HCN, I have not had any ill effects from smelling what is probably now over a thousand of these millipeds. I certainly wouldn't advise biting, eating, or ingesting one of them, however, which is what predators do, and they do experience ill effects. Rowland Shelley

… Rowland Shelley, 1 November, 2010 - 9:50pm

Thank you for the clarification

I've handled only one cyanide-scented millipede and had no ill-effects. Thus I was surprised to read Bugguide's cautions against handling them. Do you know if adverse reactions are known to vary across people?

… Peter Edelman, 2 November, 2010 - 6:39pm

Cyanide?

The cherry-like smell might be cyanide. Certain millipedes and certain cherry trees release cyanide-like compounds.

Note that these compounds (or, at least, those released by the millipedes) may be toxic. I say "may" because there appears to be disagreement on Bugguide as to how toxic they may be--see the contrasting discussions here and here. Personally, I think it might be wise to be cautious if you want to handle them.

… Peter Edelman, 1 November, 2010 - 8:42pm

Moved

Moved from ID Request. Maybe Xystodesmidae, or Eurymerodesmus is also colored like that.

… John F. Carr, 1 November, 2010 - 6:28pm