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Vietnamese Giant Centipede
IntermediateScolopendra dehaani
A large Southeast Asian centipede popular as an entry point into the exotic-invertebrate hobby. It is fast, defensive, and delivers a venomous bite that causes intense pain and swelling, so handling is strongly discouraged.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
24〜28℃
Lifespan
About 5-7 years, occasionally up to 10 in captivity
Size
Around 18-22 cm in length
Humidity
70〜85%
Diet
Mainly live insects such as crickets and roaches; offer occasional pinky mice sparingly to avoid obesity.
About
The Vietnamese Giant Centipede (Scolopendra dehaani) is a large Southeast Asian centipede from Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia, and a popular gateway into the exotic-invertebrate hobby. Reaching 18–22cm, it is fast, defensive, and delivers a venomous bite that causes intense pain and swelling, so handling is strongly discouraged. Kept in a humid 24–28°C enclosure at 70–85% humidity and fed mainly live insects, it lives 5–7 years (sometimes up to about 10) and suits careful intermediate keepers.
Basic Info
Origin
Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, etc.)
Lifespan
About 5-7 years, occasionally up to 10 in captivity
Size
Around 18-22 cm in length
Temperature
24〜28℃
Humidity
70〜85%
Diet
Mainly live insects such as crickets and roaches; offer occasional pinky mice sparingly to avoid obesity.
Care Guide
Enclosure
Use a securely lidded escape-proof enclosure with deep, moist substrate for burrowing and a hide.
Temperature & Humidity
Keep 24-28°C and 70-85% humidity, dampening part of the substrate while maintaining ventilation.
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Vietnamese Giant Centipede Listings
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