A sizable millipede found in eastern North America is called Narceus americanus. American gigantic millipede, worm millipede, and iron worm are some of their common names. It lives along North America’s eastern seaboard, north of the Ottine marshes, all the way to Georgetown, Texas. Its nearly cylindrical grey body is 4 inches in length (100 mm). From March to October, they are frequently discovered in or beneath rotting wood. When threatened, they occasionally curl up or expel a poisonous substance with high levels of benzoquinones that can burn the skin. This liquid could irritate skin or eyes. There have been allegations that N. americanus releases hydrogen cyanide, but these claims are unfounded. Many other millipedes emit hydrogen cyanide.
Habitat
The soil-litter layer interface under boards, rocks, heaps of moist dead leaves, dead trees and occasionally in moist animal corpses is where these terrestrial millipedes are most frequently found. These habitats include forests and agricultural areas. Additionally, urban and suburban regions contain them. They must stay in environments with high humidity since their cuticles are porous to water; otherwise, they would quickly become dehydrated.
Diet
- americanus are detritivores, mostly eating dead leaves and decomposing wood. When given the option, they have been shown to prefer eating fresh fruit and deer scat over their usual diet. The majority of feeding occurs at night.
Appearance
- The bodies are typically cylindrical and long which divided into numerous parts and protected by a cuticle with three layers.
- Although the borders of their body segments display a variety of hues, including yellow, purple, and pink, people are primarily black.
- North American millipedes do not emit hydrogen cyanide when threatened, in contrast to many other millipede species.
Longevity
The lifespan of millipedes in North America is often many years. This species’ greatest known lifespan is 11 years.
Importance in Humans Life
Positive Role
For the study of the physiology and segmentation of arthropods, millipedes serve as model animals. Additionally, their defence secretions may hold potential as new drug sources.
Negative Role
A chemical that these millipedes generate irritates and discolors human skin. Additionally, they are a nuisance when they swarm into homes, cover railroad tracks, and travel on roads. They can cause significant economic damage to root crops.
Housing and Decoration
Aquariums made of glass or plastic work well for millipedes. They get along well with one another and can live together without too many issues. There aren’t many ornaments needed for millipedes. However, they do require protection. They can dig under a piece of cork bark and hide there.
Substrate
Substrate Experts assert that the substrate of a pet millipede’s container is its most crucial component. Something that can hold moisture should serve as the substrate’s base. Peat moss at the depths of 4-5 inches is the most typical substrate for millipedes.
A layer of untreated, decomposing hardwood leaf litter is the most crucial component of a pet millipede’s substrate (especially oak). Some people say that dry oak leaves and mulch made of decomposed oak trees are the best bedding for millipedes.
Lighting and Temperature
American Room temperature is good for giant millipedes, with a preferred temperature of 75 degrees F. Use a digital thermometer to be sure to keep an eye on the temperature. The majority of the time, millipedes are nocturnal, therefore they don’t need any extra lighting. In fact, since millipedes are frightened of bright light, it is advisable to avoid it in their habitat. The finest black light fixture to use if you want to view your millipede at night is one that doesn’t produce heat.
Humidity
High humidity is ideal for millipede growth. The ideal humidity range is between 70 and 80%. Mist the enclosure twice—once in the morning and once at night—to accomplish this. Keep your bedding from getting too moist. The substrate’s surface should always be damp. If a millipede gets too dry, it can dry out overnight. A digital hygrometer can be used to measure humidity.
Water
Although it’s not strictly necessary, many millipede keepers include a water dish in their cages as a source of water. The food that millipedes consume contains moisture, and they also regularly wet their container to provide moisture to the surroundings. Reverse osmosis, distilled, or spring water are all suggested. Utilize a high-quality water dechlorinator if you’re planning to use tap water.
Nutrition and Diet
Because they are not particular eaters, millipedes will eat practically anything. Even though millipedes can be kept as pets, their main food source should be their substrate. Foods that are easily consumed in addition to substrate include cucumbers, apples, pears, melons, carrots, and potatoes.
Table
