Ctenolepisma almeriense facts for kids

The Ctenolepisma almeriense is a small, ancient type of insect. It belongs to an order called Zygentoma, which includes insects like silverfish.

For a long time, people thought these insects were just a common species called Ctenolepisma lineatum. But scientists later found small, clear differences. These differences showed that Ctenolepisma almeriense is actually its own unique species.

This special insect lives only in a specific part of south-eastern Spain. You can find it on the sunny, dry slopes near the Mediterranean Sea. This includes the Spanish provinces of Alicante, Almería, Murcia, and Valencia.

Where Ctenolepisma almeriense Lives

This insect loves dry places, also known as arid regions. It often hides under bits of plants or rocks. You can usually find it at the bottom of trees and bushes. It especially likes to live near Pinus (pine trees) and Juniperus (juniper bushes).

Interestingly, C. almeriense and its close relative, C. lineatum, do not live in the same areas. C. lineatum prefers places that are more damp or moist. This difference in preferred habitat helps keep the two species separate.

What Ctenolepisma almeriense Looks Like

Both C. lineatum and C. almeriense are quite small. They can grow up to 13 millimeters long. This measurement does not include their long antennae or tail-like parts. Their patterns can vary a lot, making them look a bit different from one another.

The main way to tell these two species apart is by looking at their bodies. Specifically, scientists check the combs of bristles on their thorax (the middle part of their body). C. almeriense usually has these bristles arranged in double rows. In contrast, C. lineatum typically has them in single rows. This small detail is a key feature for scientists to identify them.