
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Aphistogoniulus corallipes
A large millipede endemic to the rainforests of eastern Madagascar. Its black to dark chestnut body lined with bright red legs is the source of the trade name fire millipede. It needs high humidity and deep humus-rich substrate, and burrows by day.
Aphistogoniulus corallipes is a pachybolid millipede from the rainforests of eastern Madagascar. Bright red legs set against a black to dark chestnut body give the species its fire millipede trade name. The genus Aphistogoniulus is endemic to Madagascar and includes several of the island's larger millipedes, which circulate in the hobby under similar names, so the identity of purchased stock should be confirmed. The species is nocturnal and shelters by day in humus and leaf litter. In captivity it needs high humidity together with good ventilation, and a deep bed of leaves, decaying wood and humus. Because the substrate itself is the main food, its quality and quantity govern growth; vegetables and calcium supplements are useful extras. Several animals can be kept together and they will breed once settled, though the young grow slowly. Temperature and humidity follow published practice for the congeneric A.
Source: GBIF
The Madagascar Fire Millipede lives 5-7 years.
The ideal temperature for the Madagascar Fire Millipede is 22〜26℃. Ideal humidity is 80〜90%.
polleni: roughly 22-26 C and 80-90% humidity.
Origin
Rainforests of eastern Madagascar, including Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
Lifespan
5-7 years
Temperature
Sources: Insektenliebe: Aphistogoniulus polleni (congeneric husbandry reference) / GBIF: Aphistogoniulus corallipes
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Aphistogoniulus corallipes (Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
Synonyms: Spirobolus corallipes De Saussure & Zehntner, 1902, Mystalides corallipes (De Saussure & Zehntner, 1902)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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22〜26℃
Humidity
80〜90%
Leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables such as cucumber and sweet potato, calcium supplements
Follows published practice for the congeneric Madagascan A. polleni: 22-26 C and 80-90% humidity. Keep humidity high while maintaining ventilation.
A deep bed of leaf humus, decaying wood and leaves so they can burrow, with cork bark and moss for cover.
Leaves and decaying wood in the substrate are the staple, supplemented with vegetables such as cucumber and sweet potato plus a calcium source.
Placid and non-biting. It secretes defensive fluid from lateral glands when disturbed, so wash your hands afterwards and avoid rubbing your eyes.
Juveniles grow slowly. Several congeners trade under similar names, so check the scientific name when buying. The congener Aphistogoniulus polleni, traded as Spirostreptidae sp. 6, is the one most often confused with it.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Madagascar Fire Millipede is 22〜26℃. Recommended humidity is 80〜90%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Madagascar Fire Millipede is 5-7 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Madagascar Fire Millipede feeds on: Leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables such as cucumber and sweet potato, calcium supplements. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Madagascar Fire Millipede varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026