Peripatopsidae

Euperipatoides kanangrensis crop

Peripatopsidae is a family within the phylum Onychophora, commonly known as velvet worms. The members of this family are terrestrial invertebrates known for their unique anatomical and physiological traits. Peripatopsidae, along with its sister family Peripatidae, comprises the entirety of the Onychophora, making them crucial for understanding the evolutionary history and biology of velvet worms.

Description

Peripatopsidae species are characterized by their elongated bodies, which are covered in a soft, velvety skin. They possess numerous pairs of stubby, unjointed legs, each ending in a pair of claws. The body is segmented, with the number of segments corresponding to the number of leg pairs, which varies among species. These creatures are also known for their unique method of predation, which involves shooting a sticky slime from specialized glands to capture prey.

Distribution and Habitat

The Peripatopsidae family is primarily distributed in the Southern Hemisphere, with species found in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and parts of South America. They inhabit moist, shaded environments such as leaf litter, rotting wood, and soil, where they can maintain the high humidity levels necessary for their survival.

Reproduction and Development

Reproduction in Peripatopsidae can be either sexual or asexual, depending on the species. Many species are oviparous, laying eggs that develop outside the mother's body, while others are ovoviviparous, with eggs hatching inside the female's body, leading to the birth of live young. The development of Peripatopsidae is direct, meaning that offspring resemble miniature adults and do not go through a larval stage.

Evolution and Phylogeny

Peripatopsidae, along with Peripatidae, are considered living fossils, providing insights into the early evolution of arthropods. Molecular and morphological studies suggest that Onychophora is a sister group to Arthropoda and Tardigrada, making them significant for understanding the evolutionary relationships among these groups.

Conservation

Many species within the Peripatopsidae family are threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Their requirement for high humidity makes them particularly vulnerable to environmental changes. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect these unique creatures and their habitats.

See Also

• Onychophora
• Peripatidae
• Arthropoda
• Tardigrada