DIPLOPODA (millipedes) > JULIDA (cylindrical or snake millipedes) > Blaniulidae

Proterioulus fuscus is a very common, but inconspicuous, small and slender woodland species that typically measures around 10-12mm long and just under 1mm in diameter. Males are often smaller and some females may be very slightly longer. They are a pale pinkish mottled-brown colour with a row of darkish brown spots (ozadenes) that run along each flank from about the seventh body ring and tapering off in size towards the rear. Importantly, they have characteristic 'eyes' consisting of a single row of ocelli with a few displaced above anteriorly that form an extended patch that is sometimes likened to a very narrow acute triangle.

They are usually found under bark and frequently in association with the even smaller Nemasoma varicorne and, if it wasn't for the distinctive shape of their eye patch, could be confused if the size is not taken into account. Both species are small and similar in appearance, but Proterioulus fuscus could be regarded as large in comparison particularly if you see the two alongside each other. It is also superficially similar to the other eyed Blanuids, Choneiulus palmatus and Nopoiulus kochi, but those species are nationally scarce and are very unlikely to be found in the same habitat.