Peripatidae

Velvet worm (2002)

Peripatidae is a family within the phylum Onychophora, commonly known as velvet worms. The members of this family are characterized by their elongated bodies, which are covered in a soft, velvety skin, and their unique method of locomotion, which involves the use of numerous pairs of stubby, unjointed legs. Peripatidae species are predominantly found in tropical regions, where they inhabit moist environments such as leaf litter and rotting wood.

Description

Peripatidae exhibit a range of body sizes, typically from a few centimeters to over 10 centimeters in length. Their bodies are segmented, with each segment bearing a pair of legs. The skin of these creatures is equipped with papillae, which give it a velvety texture and appearance. The coloration of Peripatidae can vary widely, including shades of brown, red, and blue, often serving as camouflage in their natural habitat.

One of the most distinctive features of the Peripatidae is their method of predation. They possess a pair of oral papillae that can shoot out a sticky slime to entrap small invertebrate prey. This slime is produced in glands located in the body and can be projected a considerable distance relative to the size of the animal.

Reproduction and Development

Reproduction in Peripatidae can be either sexual or asexual, depending on the species. Most species are oviparous, laying eggs that develop outside the mother's body. However, some species exhibit viviparity, where the offspring develop inside the mother and are born as miniature versions of the adult. The development of Peripatidae is direct, meaning they do not go through a larval stage, but rather, the offspring gradually grow into adults while maintaining their overall body structure.

Habitat and Distribution

Peripatidae are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They require moist environments to survive, as their skin is highly permeable and prone to drying out. As such, they are commonly found in leaf litter, under logs, and in other damp locations where humidity is high.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of many Peripatidae species is not well-documented, largely due to their cryptic nature and the difficulty in studying them. However, habitat destruction and climate change are considered major threats to their populations. Conservation efforts are needed to ensure the survival of these unique creatures, which play a vital role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and breaking down dead organic material.

See Also

• Onychophora
• Velvet worm
• Invertebrate predation
• Direct development