Aphistogoniulus corallipes
The Madagascan fire millipede — a striking black-bodied species with vivid coral-red legs, endemic to the forests of Madagascar.
About Aphistogoniulus corallipes
A. corallipes is a medium-sized millipede endemic to Madagascar. Adults reach up to 12 cm and are immediately recognisable — a glossy black body with bright coral-red legs and red colouration on the head and telson. They are one of the most visually striking millipedes available in the hobby.
This species is frequently confused with Epibolus pulchripes (the East African flame-leg millipede). While both have dark bodies and red legs, they are not closely related — A. corallipes is a Madagascan endemic in the family Aphistogoniulidae, while E. pulchripes belongs to the family Pachybolidae and is East African in origin — they are in the same order (Spirobolida) but not closely related. A. corallipes tends to be slightly smaller and more slender. Like all millipedes, they are detritivores with no venom or bite.
Enclosure
A glass or plastic terrarium with at least 30x20 cm floor space for a small group. They are social and can be kept communally. Use side ventilation and maintain high humidity — a tight-fitting lid with small vents is ideal. Avoid fully mesh lids that allow moisture to escape too quickly.
Substrate & humidity
Deep, moist substrate is non-negotiable. Provide at least 10–15 cm of:
- Well-rotted hardwood (oak, beech) — the primary food source
- Coco coir for moisture retention
- Deciduous leaf litter as a surface layer
- Calcium supplements mixed throughout (cuttlebone, oyster shell, limestone)
Keep humidity at 70–85%. This species comes from tropical forest and needs consistently damp conditions. Mist regularly and never let the substrate dry out. As always, softwood (cedar, pine, spruce) is toxic — use only deciduous hardwood.
Feeding
A. corallipes feeds on decaying wood and leaf litter as its staple. Supplement with cucumber, courgette, sweet potato, and occasional fruit. Calcium is critical for exoskeleton health — keep cuttlefish bone available permanently. Remove uneaten fresh food within 48 hours to prevent mould.
Why intermediate?
This species is rated intermediate because it is less tolerant of husbandry errors than the hardier North American and Caribbean species. They are more sensitive to low humidity, temperature fluctuations, and poor substrate quality. Consistent tropical conditions are essential. If you can maintain a stable warm, humid enclosure, they are not difficult — but they punish neglect more quickly.
Handling & defence
A. corallipes can be handled gently. Support their full body and let them walk between hands. Their defensive secretions are benzoquinone-based and can stain skin and irritate mucous membranes — wash hands thoroughly after handling. Avoid handling during or shortly after a moult, as the new exoskeleton needs time to harden.
Breeding
Breeding is possible in captivity but slower than prolific species like Anadenobolus monilicornis. Females lay eggs in the substrate. Hatchlings are tiny, with few body segments — additional segments and leg pairs develop with each successive moult. Growth to adult size takes 1–2 years. Deep, calcium-rich substrate supports developing young.