Anadenobolus monilicornis
The bumblebee millipede — a small, fast-breeding Caribbean species with bold black-and-yellow banding.
About Anadenobolus monilicornis
A. monilicornis is a small spirobolid millipede originally from the Caribbean, now established in parts of Florida and other tropical regions worldwide. Adults reach 5–7 cm and display striking alternating bands of black and yellow — earning them the common name "bumblebee millipede."
They are active, surface-dwelling, and breed readily in captivity, making them one of the most rewarding species for beginners. Unlike larger species that hide underground for long stretches, bumblebees are frequently visible and make excellent display animals. They are harmless detritivores with no bite or venom.
Enclosure
A small group can be kept in a plastic container or terrarium with at least 25x15 cm of floor space. They are highly social and thrive in groups — a colony of 10–20 in a larger enclosure is ideal. Ensure good ventilation with a secure, tight-fitting lid. Despite their small size, they can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps.
Substrate & humidity
Provide at least 10 cm of substrate, even for these smaller millipedes — they still moult underground. A suitable mix:
- Decayed hardwood and bark (oak, beech)
- Coco coir for moisture retention
- A generous layer of deciduous leaf litter on top
- Crushed cuttlebone or calcium powder mixed through the substrate
Keep humidity at 70–85% by misting regularly. The substrate should stay consistently damp. Avoid softwood of any kind — cedar, pine, and spruce are toxic to all millipedes.
Feeding
Bumblebee millipedes are enthusiastic feeders. The staple diet is decaying wood and leaf litter. Supplement with cucumber, courgette, sweet potato, and occasional fruit (banana works well). They tend to eat proportionally more than larger species, so keep food available at all times. Calcium is critical — provide cuttlefish bone permanently.
Breeding
This is one of the easiest millipede species to breed. Given a warm, humid enclosure with deep substrate and plentiful food, a colony will produce young continuously. Females lay small clutches of eggs in the substrate. Hatchlings are tiny and pale, darkening with each moult as they add new body segments and leg pairs. Growth to maturity is relatively fast — around 8–12 months under good conditions. Populations can grow quickly, so be prepared to separate or rehome individuals.
Handling & defence
Bumblebee millipedes are small and fast, which makes them trickier to handle than larger, slower species. They are not aggressive — just quick. Cup your hands and let them walk rather than trying to grip them. Their defensive secretions are benzoquinone-based and can mildly irritate skin and mucous membranes, so wash your hands afterwards.