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Narceus americanus
A large, hardy millipede from eastern North America with a brown body ringed in red, and a gentle detritivore that is one of the best beginner species.
The American giant millipede (Narceus americanus) is a large, hardy species from eastern North America, with a brown body ringed in red at each segment. Reaching about 8–10 cm and notably long-lived, it is one of the best beginner invertebrates. It is a gentle detritivore that does not bite, feeding on leaf litter and decaying wood. Keep it at 20–26°C and a fairly high 70–90% humidity, offering leaf-mold, hardwood leaf litter, and rotting wood, supplemented with vegetables such as pumpkin or cucumber and a calcium source.
Origin
Eastern North America
Lifespan
About 7-10 years
Size
About 8-10 cm
Temperature
20〜26℃
Humidity
70〜90%
Primarily decaying hardwood leaf litter and rotting wood, supplemented with vegetables such as squash or cucumber and a calcium source.
Provide 10 cm or more of leaf-litter and rotten-wood substrate so they can burrow.
Keep 20-26°C and 70-90% humidity with consistently slightly damp substrate.
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The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
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Decaying litter and wood are the staple; offer vegetables and calcium as supplements.
Non-venomous and does not bite, but its defensive benzoquinone secretion can stain and irritate skin; wash hands after handling and avoid eye contact.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for American Giant Millipede is 20〜26℃. Recommended humidity is 70〜90%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of American Giant Millipede is About 7-10 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
American Giant Millipede typically reaches About 8-10 cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
American Giant Millipede feeds on: Primarily decaying hardwood leaf litter and rotting wood, supplemented with vegetables such as squash or cucumber and a calcium source.. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of American Giant Millipede varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 30, 2026