Geographic Distribution, Diversity and Conservation Status of Giant Millipedes in Southern Cameroon Rainforest

Giant millipedes are involved in the breakdown of organic matter and confined to tropical biomes. A review of giant millipedes from historical reports and new field data were carried out to assess distribution and diversity patterns throughout the Cameroon rainforest, while the conservation status of endemic species was evaluated for the first time using IUCN Red List criteria and categories. Fourteen species were identified in the Cameroon fauna. Of these, nine were endemic (64%) while five species have been introduced (36%). Recently, two species (Pachybolus togoensis, and Ophistreptoides gabonensis) were added to the known fauna of Cameroon. Of the extant endemic species, Telodeinopus canaliculatus has a wide distribution and has been recorded in five regions, while Pelmatojulus excisus and Odontostreptus sjoestedti were found in three regions, and Spirostreptus crenulatus was restricted to a single region. Based on IUCN Red List criteria, six species (60%) could be considered extinct in their distribution range and in surrounding localities, one species (10%) is likely endangered, two species (20%) are probably vulnerable and one species (10%) is of least concern. Our findings represent a substantial contribution of the knowledge of the giant millipedes in Africa.