Millipedes are known to hang out in yards where they can find food and moisture. Having a better understanding of these arthropods and their habits will make it easier to prevent and control a problem. Check out these six interesting facts about millipedes.
1. Millipedes Have Many Legs
Millipedes have more legs than other creepy crawlies. Their bodies are segmented, with each segment containing two pairs of legs. This distinguishes them from centipedes that have one pair of legs per segment. Though their name implies that they have 1000 feet, most millipede species have less than 100. Recently, a millipede species, Eumillipes persephone, was discovered in Australia that has over 1300 legs.
2. Some Millipedes Secrete Toxins
While most millipede species are harmless and do not bite or sting, there are certain millipede species that have built-in defense mechanisms that help protect them from predators. These millipedes can secrete toxins from their glands when they feel threatened or are roughly handled. The toxins can irritate your skin, causing burning or itching. They can also stain your skin.
3. Millipedes Curl Their Body for Protection
Insects and arthropods have different defense mechanisms. While some flee or attack, millipedes choose a different option. When millipedes feel threatened, they curl into a tight coil. This leaves their hard exoskeleton exposed rather than their softer underside. Millipedes will do this to protect themselves against predators, but they also do it when humans touch them.
4. Some Millipedes Are Bioluminescent
While it is rare, there are a few millipede species that can glow in the dark. There are about 12,000 known millipede species in the world, and less than ten are bioluminescent. These millipedes, from the genus Motyxia, can be found in California. They glow a greenish-blue color. This acts as a form of protection, warning potential predators to stay away from them.
5. Millipedes Like Moisture
Millipedes are happiest when they are in damp environments. They are often spotted in forests, gardens, and yards that have organic matter for them to eat. Millipedes hide under mulch, grass clippings, dead leaves, and other debris that provides moisture and keeps them cool. When conditions outside aren’t ideal, these arthropods will head indoors. They gravitate to damp areas such as basements, garages, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
6. Millipedes Are Detritivores
Millipedes primarily feed on decaying organic matter. Dead leaves, rotting wood, and other plant material are potential food sources. Some millipedes will eat living plants, especially if other food sources are limited. Roots and leaves can provide millipedes with the moisture they need. Millipedes tend to feed on seedlings, which can damage or kill the plants.
While the occasional millipede in your yard isn’t usually an issue, millipedes can become a problem when they invade your home. Taking the time to learn about these arthropods will make it easier to control an infestation. If you’re dealing with millipedes or other pests, check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution when used as directed.