A general methodology for collecting and preserving xystodesmid and other large millipedes for biodiversity research

Abstract

BackgroundWith an estimated 80% of species remaining undescribed (but see Brewer et al. 2012), millipede taxonomy offers the opportunity to discover new species and explore biodiversity. The lack of basic alpha taxonomic information regarding millipedes belies their significant ecological role and potential as premier models in ecological and evolutionary studies. The group possesses many fascinating biological properties (e.g., bioluminescence, mimicry, and complex chemical secretions) that have been the focus of several recent studies and are emerging avenues of future investigation.New informationHere we summarize a methodology for large-bodied millipede collection, curation, and preservation for genetic analyses with the hope that sharing these techniques will stimulate interest in these charismatic detritivores.

Is geography an accurate predictor of evolutionary history in the millipede family Xystodesmidae?

“…Specimen collection and processing techniques are those described in Means et al (2015) . Millipedes collected in the field were brought to the lab alive for habitus photography, preservation of genetic material, and storage in the Virginia Tech Insect Collection (VTEC, http://collection.ento.vt.edu/ ).…”

“…Morphological traits were examined and character states scored using a Leica M125 stereomicroscope (Leica Microsystems, Wetzlar, Germany). Gonopods from the left side of the 7th body ring were dissected following Means et al (2015) , and photographed in alcohol with a Canon 6D dSLR camera and a 65 mm MP-E macro lens mounted on a Passport II Portable Digital Imaging System (Visionary Digital, Charlottesville, VA, USA). Gonopods were photographed at 6–20 focal planes and stacked in the program Helicon Focus (Helicon, Kharkiv, Ukraine).…”

“…In order to determine the distribution of S. whiteheadi , collections were carried out every 0.5 km in linear transects radiating from the four cardinal directions from the type locality, for a total of 32 sample locations (National Park Service Permit # BLRI-2014-SCI-0033). Sampling protocols followed Means et al (2015) . A maximum of five adult individuals were retained from each sampling locality to lessen disturbance to the population.…”

Cryptic diversity in Andrognathus corticarius Cope, 1869 and description of a new Andrognathus species from New Mexico (Diplopoda, Platydesmida, Andrognathidae)

“…Andrognathuscorticarius individuals appear to burrow into dead organic matter and humus, and are often found inside decaying wood and beneath the bark. They are not typically beneath leaves as is commonly observed with xystodesmid millipedes (Means et al 2015). Decaying logs that were just beginning to lose bark and soften due to decomposition were ideal habitats.…”

“…Material collected in the field (2005–2017) was brought back to the lab alive for DNA extraction and specimen preparation. Individuals were found by flipping and breaking apart decaying hardwood logs and examining the surfaces of large fallen branches in mesic forest habitats, such as areas where xystodesmid millipedes are found (Means et al 2015). In contrast, some individuals were occasionally found in dry habitats under pine logs.…”