Outdoor seating, such as benches and picnic tables, is a common feature in urban landscapes. While these structures provide comfort for humans, their presence subtly reshapes the microhabitats of urban myriapods—centipedes, millipedes, and other soil-dwelling arthropods.

The installation of seating often compacts soil, reducing porosity and limiting the movement of myriapods. Shade from benches alters moisture levels, creating drier or damper patches that influence species distribution. Additionally, organic debris like fallen leaves or food scraps accumulates near seating areas, offering new food sources but also attracting predators.

Studies suggest that myriapod diversity fluctuates near seating zones, with some species thriving in disturbed microhabitats while others retreat to undisturbed soil. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for urban planners aiming to balance human convenience with ecological health. By designing seating with permeable bases or integrating green spaces, cities can mitigate negative impacts on these vital decomposers.

Further research is needed to quantify long-term effects, but one thing is clear: even small urban fixtures like benches play a role in shaping the hidden world beneath our feet.