Nightmares: the stuff of bad dreams

Acletoxenus indicus Malloch, 1929

Researchers at the National University of Singapore were carrying out experiments to determine how whiteflies (Aleurotrachelus trachoides) affect chilli plants and if their biological control was possible. What they found was much more sinister.

However, when the larger larvae pupated, they emerged not as whiteflies but as flies that have been tentatively identified as Acletoxenus indicus.

The flies can only be tentatively identified as Acletoxenus indicus as the colouration of the adults does not seem to be a useful characteristic.

This study has shown that the characteristics used to identify species of Acletoxenus flies will need to be revised.

The flies from Singapore have colouration pattern that matches three of the four known species of Acletoxenus flies. Acletoxenus indicus was first described from specimens from India and is found in many countries. In ASEAN, this species is tentatively known from Singapore.

Dead Man’s Fingers
Xylaria polymorpha (Pers.) Grev.

This species of fungus superficially resembles charred fingers emerging from the ground, hence their common name. These black finger-like structures are only present when the colony is mature. This species is often found growing on dead tree stumps and wood, acting as a decomposer. It releases enzymes that break down the lignin and carbohydrates, causing the resulting wood to become softer, while other nutrients are released to support its growth. This is called ‘soft rot’. This decomposition allows other small creatures to feed on the remaining nutrients to complete the decomposition process.

When it grows on certain trees, this fungus produces a melanin-like pigment that protects the colony. These pigment forms black zone lines in the wood of the tree. The zone lines can imbue the wood with pretty colours and patterns. People often use this species to introduce unique colours and distinctive patterns into wood in a process called spalting. Each piece of spalted wood is one-of-a-kind and no two pieces are the same. They are much sought-after by custom furniture makers and buyers.

Little is known about the edibility of this fungus and consuming it is not recommended. This species is widespread worldwide and is possibly found throughout ASEAN.

Atlantic Fangjaw
Gonostoma atlanticum Norman, 1930

Its name notwithstanding, the Atlantic Fangjaw is found worldwide in tropical and subtropical waters from 50 to 1,352 metres. Despite its fearsome (and nightmarish) appearance and name, this species mainly feeds on tiny shrimp-like crustaceans called krill. It also possesses rows of light-producing organs (or photophores) along the lower half of its body. Within ASEAN, this species is found in deep water around Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.

The maggot proceeded to pupate while the termite wandered around for a short time before dying.

The identity of the ‘alien’ was confirmed when the adult fly emerged from the pupa. It was identified as Verticia orientalis.

This species is known to somehow (scientists do not know how!) enter and develop in the head of termites and cause abnormal growth. Outside of ASEAN, this species is known from India. Within ASEAN, this species is known from Peninsular Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.

Three Colour Flat-back Millipede
Antheromorpha uncinata Jeekel, 1968

The body segments of this species are very brightly coloured and are a distinctive difference from other millipede species. The body colour varies from reddish-orange to light yellow with the blackish to dark brown parallel bands present on each body segment. The head and antennae are blackish in colour, while the legs are dark to light brown in colour.

This millipede is commonly found in evergreen forests, limestone areas or near human habitation. It is widely distributed from the north to the south of Thailand.

At certain times, when conditions are favourable, the population of this species can explode. This leads to swarms of these millipedes.

One such swarm was reported in Phan District, Chiang Rai Province, in northern Thailand. A very large number of these millipedes made their way into the homes of local villagers, causing panic and distress—a millipede nightmare!

Thankfully, this species is harmless and it is plays an important role as a decomposer in the ecosystem.