Myriapods

Myriapods are a group of arthropods that include millipedes and centipedes, characterized by having many segmented bodies and numerous legs—ranging from dozens to hundreds. Millipedes generally have two pairs of legs per body segment and are slow-moving detritivores, feeding on decaying plant material. Centipedes have one pair of legs per segment and are fast, predators that hunt small animals with venomous claws. Both types have a hard exoskeleton and breathe through spiracles. Myriapods play important roles in soil health and ecosystem balance, helping decompose organic matter and control pest populations.