Each night this week I've been going out to my yard with a black light and I'm finding local polydesmids to collect and begin learning about. This is our local Sigmoria (Rudiloria) trimaculata trimaculata - large and plentiful around here. I hope to learn how we might bring it into the hobby.
What a lovely creature. Because I am unfortunately sizest about these, I have to ask how large they grow. And how exciting. I didn't know that they flouresce until you mentioned it here. Maybe I'll find some desert varieties when I'm out looking for scorpions this season. Just getting underway here in Arizona.
Hi @Dovey ! This one was just under 2 inches long, which seems close to the maximum size I've seen them. Some individuals in the genus on Bugguide are listed at 2.5 inches. I have to say that black light scanning the ground at night when the ground is damp is the easiest way I know to find them. For the past week I've spent hours turning logs every day, and found 1. Just last night I scanned with the light in a small area under the trees behind my house and found 6 in 20 minutes. It's definitely the way to go Have fun in the desert!
@Dovey Unfortunately I don't think there are any Xystodesmids that live in desert habitats and the small polydesmids found in dry places are most likely non-fluorescent. The desert does have Orthoporus, which in my opinion is a fair trade-off.
Hello there, why not take a few seconds to register on our forums and become part of the community? Just click here.
This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.