Fluorescent Millipede

Apheloria virginiensis is a large North American millipede. It is known to secrete cyanide compounds as a defense. It is recommended that one wash hands after handling this organism as the toxic compounds it secretes are poisonous and can cause extreme irritation if rubbed in the eyes. This image is part of a set showing the millipede in white light an din ultraviolet (UV) light. Why this animal is fluorescent under UV light is unknown.

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Filename: K19-millipede014.jpg
Copyright: Ted Kinsman / Science Source Inc.
Image Size: 5760x3840 / 22.6MB; millipede Apheloria virginiensis north america cyanide defense UV fluorescent
Contained in galleries: science

Apheloria virginiensis is a large North American millipede. It is known to secrete cyanide compounds as a defense. It is recommended that one wash hands after handling this organism as the toxic compounds it secretes are poisonous and can cause extreme irritation if rubbed in the eyes. This image is part of a set showing the millipede in white light an din ultraviolet (UV) light. Why this animal is fluorescent under UV light is unknown.