A Simple Guide To MILLIPEDES

Millipedes are calm, slow-moving invertebrates that spend their time burrowing through soil and leaf litter. They are fascinating to observe as they explore their environment. With the right setup, they are easy to care for and make a great choice for anyone looking for something a little different.

Lifespan: 2-10 years (depending on species)

Size: 2-12in (5-30cm) (depending on species)

Activity: Mostly nocturnal; active within substrate and at the surface

Sociability: Can be kept alone or in small groups (depending on species)

Suitability: Beginner

🏡Enclosure

• Plastic or glass terrarium with ventilation
• Secure lid
• Floor space and substrate depth more important than height
• Keep away from direct sunlight, draughts, and heat sources

🟫Substrate

• Organic soil
• Sphagnum moss
• Leaf litter
• Decaying wood
• Deep for burrowing; should be deeper than the millipede’s body length
• Substrate should be damp, not waterlogged

🌡️Heating & Humidity

• Humidity of 60-80%
• Light misting for humidity maintenance
• Substrate must never be allowed to dry out – they can quickly become dehydrated, which can prove fatal
• No special heating or lighting requirements
• If room temperature is low, a heat mat can be provided but do not place it under the tank – it will dry out the substrate, and burrowing millipedes may overheat. Instead, place it on one side

🍂Décor

• Cork bark, moss, and wood for hiding
• Floor space is more important than height, some raised elements (such as branches) can be provided for climbing

🦗Diet

• Primarily leaf litter and decaying wood
• Occasional fresh veg, including offcuts
• Calcium source, such as cuttlefish bone or crushed eggshell

🤲Handling

• Easily stressed, so shouldn’t be handled too often
• Harmless and non-aggressive
• Calm and slow-moving
• May curl up or secrete fluid when stressed

🧽Cleaning

• Spot remove mouldy food
• Replace leaf litter when necessary
• Refresh moss every so often
• Rarely require a full clean out

🩺Quick Health Check

• Healthy signs: active, smooth movement, burrowing
• Concerns: lethargy, curling tightly for long periods, dry or shrivelled appearance
• Check humidity and substrate if issues arise

🧺Shopping List

• Terrarium with lid
• Organic soil
• Leaf litter
• Sphagnum moss
• Décor
• Calcium source
• Spray bottle