Millipedes: The Gentle Giants of the Invertebrate World - Keeping, Breeding, and Understanding Milli

Millipedes belong to the class Diplopoda, a group of arthropods known for their cylindrical, segmented bodies and numerous legs. Each body segment typically has two pairs of legs, a characteristic feature that distinguishes them from their more aggressive cousins, the centipedes (class Chilopoda), who have one pair of legs per body segment.
The name "millipede" comes from Latin roots - mille meaning thousand, and pes meaning foot - yet most species have between 80 to 400 legs, not a thousand. In contrast, centipedes rarely have more than 100 legs. These differences in structure mirror deep behavioral and ecological differences:
Millipedes are detritivores. They feed primarily on decaying plant matter, playing a critical role in nutrient recycling within ecosystems.

Centipedes are carnivorous predators, equipped with venomous fangs used to paralyze prey.

Anatomically, millipedes have rounded bodies, move slowly and deliberately, and use their many legs for steady locomotion. Their legs move in a graceful wave-like motion, which is mesmerizing to watch. In contrast, centipedes have flattened bodies, are agile and fast, and tend to strike quickly when threatened.
In terms of behavior and temperament, millipedes are non-aggressive and shy, relying on curling into a tight spiral when disturbed. This defensive posture protects their vulnerable undersides and minimizes exposure to threats. Many species also emit chemical secretions with unpleasant odors or tastes as a secondary defense mechanism.
These distinctions are essential to understand from the outset, as they shape the core philosophy behind millipede husbandry. While centipedes are often kept for their exotic appearance and hunting behavior, millipedes appeal to those who appreciate gentle, slow-moving, earth-friendly organisms that embody calmness and quiet endurance.
This foundational difference also makes millipedes ideal for children, beginners, or anyone looking for a low-stress, low-maintenance companion animal that is both educational and intriguing.