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Giant African Millipede
Archispirostreptus gigas
The giant African millipede is the largest species of millipede, growing up to 13 inches long and 2.5 inches around - and they have 300 to 400 legs. Often confused with insects, they are actually arthropods, relatives of shrimp and crabs.
Range & Habitat
Rainforests of subtropical western Africa. They prefer dark, hollow spaces under rotting roots.
Conservation Status: Common, Not Endangered
Diet
In the Wild: Decaying roots seeds and logs.
In Human Care: A variety of fruit and vegetables.
Life Span
5 to 7 years
Fun Facts about the Giant African Millipede
- Giant african Millipedes can smell AND taste with all of their body parts!
- This millipede is nocturnal, meaning it is active at night.
- Millipedes have four legs for each body segment while centipedes have only two.
Sources
San Diego Zoo. Giant African Millipede. https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/giant-african-millipede. Accessed 2/18/2021
Oregon Zoo. Giant African millipede. https://www.oregonzoo.org/discover/animals/giant-african-millipede. Accessed 1/18/2021
Updated June 13, 2023
