The vast majority of millipedes eat decomposing materials, such as rotting wood or plant matter. A small number of species also eat meat, such as insects. Most species will also eat their own faeces and their discarded exoskeleton after they…
Millipedes breathe through sets of spiracles that are located on each segment of their body. These spiracles act as holes to allow oxygen into the body. Air then moves down a series of tubes called trachea and is fed directly…
Some millipedes do enter a state that is similar to hibernation. True hibernation is experienced by warm-blooded animals, whereas millipedes enter diapause. They may also enter aestivation, which is similar but occurs during dry periods. What is hibernation? Hibernation is…
Millipedes do have a set of antennae on their heads, though these aren’t always easy to see in some species. Their size can vary, but they are used as important sensory organs. Millipedes have ‘elbowed’ antennae, making it easier for…
Millipedes start their life as an egg, which hatches into a nymph that has fewer legs than adults. Once mature, they will find another adult to mate with. What is a millipede’s lifespan? There are around 16,000 species of millipedes…
Millipedes do not have stings and aren’t able to cause a significant bite, as their jaws are generally too weak to get through our skin. Some species can exude toxic liquids that can cause skin irritation, however, most do not…
