Discover a new layer of life underfoot at Morrow Mountain State Park, where an unassuming yet fascinating discovery is thrilling naturalists and hikers alike. The millipede species Apheloria uwharrie, named for the rugged Uwharrie Mountains it inhabits, was recently classified as part of a revision to the Apheloria genus. Found throughout the Uwharrie region and stretching south into South Carolina, this small creature invites visitors to look closer on their next forest walk.

Taxonomy, the science of naming and classifying organisms, plays a critical role here. By assigning species a genus and species name— in this case, Apheloria uwharrie— scientists can chart relationships among creatures and preserve biodiversity knowledge in a changing world. Carol Tingley, a member of the North Carolina Biodiversity Project and co-author of the Zootaxa study that detailed this find, reminds us that even well-trod woods can surprise with unknown life.

For visitors planning a trip to spot this millipede, Morrow Mountain State Park offers trails winding through forest floors rich with leaf litter and decaying wood, prime habitat for these segmented explorers. The park’s trails range from easy to moderate, with gentle elevation gains that invite steady, rhythmic hiking. Keep your eyes attentive on damp logs and beneath bark, where Apheloria uwharrie most likely courses through its microcosm.

To make the most of your hike, wear sturdy boots prepared for leaf-strewn, sometimes slippery ground. Carry water and prepare for variable weather—spring and fall deliver the most comfortable temperatures, though summer afternoons bring lush greenery and vibrant insect life, while winter strips the forest to revealing outlines.

Look beyond just the main trails. Quiet corners and shaded hollows play host to this millipede, challenging explorers to engage deeply with the environment. The moist ground is alive with unseen activity, each step a chance to connect with something fiercely itself, moving along a leaf’s edge or beneath time-softened bark.

Though small, Apheloria uwharrie stands as a testament to the delicate balance within these hills and the continuing importance of scientific inquiry paired with adventure. Your visit supports understanding and conserving this habitat, turning a simple hike into a practical exploration of biodiversity.

For detailed information about the genus revision and to learn more on spotting this species, visit the North Carolina Biodiversity Project’s page: https://nc-biodiversity.com/post/revision-millipede-genus-apheloria.

Adventure is calling beneath the forest floor; prepare to meet it eye to eye, one segment at a time.