Lissodesmus spp.: Introduction

(Order Polydesmida, family Dalodesmidae)

There are at least 18 species of Lissodesmus in Tasmania, and they are by far the most widespread and abundant dalodesmids in the State. (Lissodesmus also occurs in Victoria, which has at least another 10 species). In many parts of the State they are the only Polydesmida more than 15 mm long which are likely to be seen by a casual collector. Local populations can average 50 individuals per square metre, and up to five species in the group can be found in the same small patch of forest.

Most Lissodesmus species are pale to chestnut brown, but some of the smaller species are off-white and L. montanus is a handsome reddish-brown. Most species are shallow burrowers in the top layers of richly organic soil. Mature males wander widely and can often be found sheltering under woody litter.

Lissodesmus species are difficult to identify, and the identification page requires you to closely examine the gonopods of mature males. However, as shown on the distribution page, most species have small ranges. Use the maps to help you eliminate possibilities. If you find a male Lissodesmus which looks nothing like those illustrated, or comes from a locality far from its mapped range, please email me with the details.

More information:
 
Taxonomy - Chamberlin (1920), Jeekel (1984), Mesibov (2003c), Mesibov (2006a)
Distribution, conservation and general - Mesibov (1992), Mesibov (1993a), Mesibov (1993b), Mesibov (1994), Mesibov et al. (1995), Mesibov (1996), Mesibov (1997a), Mesibov (1997b), Mesibov (1998a), Mesibov (1998b), Mesibov (1999), Bonham et al. (2002), Mesibov (2006a)