Pauropoda are small, soft-bodied arthropods that belong to the class of myriapods. They typically measure between 0.5 to 2 millimeters in length and have a segmented body with 11 to 12 pairs of legs. Pauropods are usually found in moist environments, such as leaf litter and soil, where they play a role in decomposing organic matter. These creatures are often mistaken for mites or springtails due to their size and appearance. Pauropoda have a unique life cycle, undergoing several molts as they grow. They primarily feed on decaying plant material and fungi, contributing to nutrient cycling in their ecosystems.