giant millipede care - Noah's Ark Pets
Common Name: African Giant Black Millipede
Scientific Name: Archispirostreptus species
Range: Tropical and sub-tropical Africa.
Adult Size: 8 to 11 inches
African Giant Black Millipedes are beautiful, extremely docile, moisture-loving giants that make
the perfect pet arthropod! They are found under moist debris, rotting wood, etc. These millipedes
have the ability to curl themselves up into a ball if disturbed, and can secrete a rarely used
liquid that could be dangerous if put into the eyes or mouth. Make sure to wash your hands if
exposed to the liquid. They do not have a million legs, but actually only about a hundred. To
find the number of legs on your millipede, count the body segments, multiply by 2, and subtract 6.
The African Giant Black Millipede is believed to be the largest millipede in the world, and if
not the largest, definitely one of the largest.
Housing: Provide a 5 to 10-gallon tank, depending on the size of the millipede. Millipedes can live
communally. The tank should be twice as long, and at least as wide as the individual, or the
largest millipede in the tank. Floor space is more important than height. Substrate 3 to 4 inches
of reptile soil and shredded coconut husks, kept moist. The African Giant Black Millipede is
terrestrial, and will burrow to some extent burrow, so depth is necessary.
Temperature: Provide a temperature range of 75 to 85 degrees F. Use under tank heat pads for 24
hour heating. Always use a thermometer to ensure proper temperature range is maintained.
Water: provide a small bowl of de-chlorinated water. Change daily. Mist enclosure two times per
week to keep humidity high.
Food: Likes fruits and vegetables such as bananas, tomatoes, melons, romaine lettuce, apples,
cucumbers, etc. Millipedes should have a supply of calcium added to their diet, like calcium
powder, which can be purchased from most pet stores.
*Please note that ALL millipedes can secrete a liquid that can be dangerous to some people.
Although most people are not affected by this species, some people may be allergic to the liquid,
or just more sensitive, making it a dangerous situation, especially if put into the eyes or
mouth. Affects of this millipedes' natural defenses may vary between people. All millipedes can
secrete this liquid, so be careful, because you don't want to find out if you are allergic or
more sensitive the HARD WAY!
NOTE: This care sheet is a general guide, to learn more about your pet consult a book about it.
