© Eugene Popov / CC BY 4.0Red Dragon Centipede
The Red Dragon Centipede is a striking red-orange giant centipede native to Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand, marked by a distinctive black band along the rear edge of each dorsal plate. Reaching 16 cm or more in length, it combines bold coloration with quick, powerful movement that commands attention. First described in 1938 as a subspecies of S. subspinipes, it was recognized as its own species in 2012. With a lifespan of 2 to 3 years, this is an advanced-level animal that demands careful handling and solid keeping experience — but for those ready for it, few species offer such a commanding presence.
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Apply as a breederRed Dragon Centipede key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- 2-3 years
- Size
- Over 16cm
- Temperature
- 23〜29℃
- Humidity
- 60〜80%
- Diet
- Crickets, dubia and red runner roaches
- Temperature & Humidity
- 23-29 C (26 C as base) with 60-80% humidity. Keep the substrate moist.
- Enclosure
- A tight-sealing enclosure with 5-10 cm of coco fibre, a hide and a shallow water dish.
- Diet & Feeding
- Crickets, dubia or red runner roaches once or twice a week.
- Temperament & Venom
- Aggressive with potent venom. Never handle.
- Notes
- House singly. The trade name red dragon is also used for S. dehaani, so check the scientific name.
About Red Dragon Centipede
A red-orange giant centipede from Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand, known for its black-banded segments, 16cm+ length, and 2-3 year lifespan. Advanced keepers only.
7 things to know before welcoming a Red Dragon Centipede
1Suited for Advanced Keepers
The Red Dragon Centipede is rated for advanced keepers and requires specialized knowledge and experience to handle safely. It is not recommended as a first centipede. Build a solid foundation in giant centipede care before bringing one home.
2Prepare for the Venomous Bite
Like other giant centipedes, this species has powerful forcipules capable of delivering a painful bite. Avoid direct hand contact and always use dedicated tongs or feeding tweezers when handling. It's wise to know in advance how to respond if a bite occurs.
3Escape-Proof Enclosure Is Essential
This species is strong and skilled at squeezing through small gaps, so a secure, tightly-lidded enclosure is a must. Choose fine-mesh ventilation and provide enough floor space relative to its adult size.
4Keep Individually, Not Communally
Giant centipedes are highly territorial and prone to cannibalism, so they should never be housed together — each individual needs its own enclosure. If you plan to keep multiple centipedes, prepare one cage per animal.
5Provide Substrate for Burrowing
This species naturally spends much of its time burrowed or hidden, so a reasonably deep substrate layer along with hides helps it feel secure. Maintaining moderate humidity without letting the enclosure dry out is also important.
6Understand the 2-3 Year Lifespan
With a lifespan of around 2 to 3 years, this species is relatively short-lived compared to some other exotic pets. Before bringing one home, consider this lifecycle and make sure you're prepared to care for it responsibly for its full life.
7Vivid Coloration and Striking Presence
Its red-orange body marked with a continuous row of black bands creates a highly distinctive look, and combined with its 16cm+ length, it makes for a commanding display animal. This visual impact is a major part of its appeal among keepers.
Frequently asked questions about Red Dragon Centipede
- Q.Can beginners keep a Red Dragon Centipede?
- A.This species is rated for advanced keepers and is not recommended for beginners. It requires solid preparation, including knowledge of handling techniques and how to respond to a venomous bite.
- Q.How large does it grow?
- A.As an adult, it reaches 16 cm or more, making it a large giant centipede. The enclosure should be chosen with this eventual size in mind.
- Q.Can multiple individuals be kept in the same enclosure?
- A.No — this species is territorial and prone to cannibalism, so individuals should never be housed together. If keeping more than one, provide a separate enclosure for each.
- Q.What is the lifespan?
- A.The lifespan is typically 2 to 3 years. It's important to understand this lifecycle before bringing one home and be prepared to care for it through its full life.
- Q.Is it subject to any regulations?
- A.It is not listed under CITES.
Learn more about Red Dragon Centipede in the encyclopedia
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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
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