If something were the largest in its region, you'd think that it would be well-documented. Such has not been the case with a newly discovered centipede, however, which is now the biggest known species in Japan and Taiwan.
Measuring 20 cm long by almost 2 cm thick (7.9 by 0.8 in), the not-so-little beast is a member of the Scolopendra genus of highly predatory centipedes. Not only is it the largest centipede in the area, but it's also just the third Scolopendra species known to be amphibious.
In fact, before it was officially classified, it was first observed attacking giant freshwater prawns on the islands of the Ryukyu Archipelago. After those initial sightings, its existence was scientifically verified on an expedition led by myriapodologist Sho Tsukamoto and Assoc. Prof. Katsuyuki Eguchi – both from Tokyo Metropolitan University – along with Prof. Satoshi Shimano of Hosei University.
The arthropod's scientific name is "Scolopendra alcyona Tsukamoto & Shimano" – Alcyone was a character in Greek mythology, who Zeus transformed into a kingfisher. Its Japanese name is ryujin-ômukade, referencing a local myth of a ryujin dragon god that was vexed by a centipede that had crawled into its ear.
The scientists state that it is the first new centipede to be discovered in Japan in 143 years, and it's likely endangered. It has avoided prior discovery mainly due to the fact that it inhabits secluded streams deep in the forest, which are not often visited by people. Plans call for continued observations to be conducted from a distance, in order not to disturb its habitat.
Source: Tokyo Metropolitan University via EurekAlert
