Colorful Cherry Millipede

Apheloria polychroma is a species of flat-backed millipede in the family Xystodesmidae. Also known as the colorful cherry millipede, this species is found in Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, and Georgia. This millipede produces hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde as a defense mechanism, and the common name refers to the scent of benzaldehyde, which smells like cherries. This species displays bright colors in six different patterns as aposematic coloration, warning predators of toxic secretions. This millipede can reach two...