Narceus americanus
The American giant millipede — a dark-bodied, pink-legged native found across the eastern United States.
About Narceus americanus
N. americanus is the most widely distributed large millipede in eastern North America. Adults reach around 10 cm and are characterised by a dark grey-to-black body with distinctive red or pink legs. They are often confused with the closely related Narceus gordanus — the two species overlap in the southeastern US, but N. americanus tends to be darker overall with more vivid leg colouration.
Like all millipedes, they are harmless detritivores. They do not bite, sting, or possess venom. Their only defence is to curl into a spiral and release mild chemical secretions. They are hardy, forgiving of minor husbandry mistakes, and make an excellent first millipede.
Enclosure
A glass or plastic terrarium of at least 30x20 cm floor space for a small group. They are gregarious and do well kept communally. Ensure good ventilation while maintaining humidity — side vents are preferable to a fully mesh lid. Keep the enclosure out of direct sunlight.
Substrate & humidity
A deep, moist substrate is essential. Provide at least 10–15 cm of:
- Decayed hardwood (oak, beech, maple) — both food and habitat
- Coco coir for moisture retention
- Organic topsoil or leaf mould
- A surface layer of deciduous leaf litter
Millipedes moult underground and need deep substrate to do so safely. Never use softwood (cedar, pine, spruce) — the aromatic compounds are toxic. Maintain humidity at 65–80% by misting regularly. The substrate should be damp throughout but never waterlogged.
Feeding
The bulk of their diet comes from decaying wood and leaf litter in the substrate itself. Supplement with fresh vegetables (cucumber, courgette, sweet potato) and occasional fruit. Calcium is critical — keep cuttlefish bone or crushed oyster shell permanently available. This species feeds at a steady pace, so ensure the substrate is refreshed with new decayed wood every few months.
Handling & defence
N. americanus is docile and handles well. Let them walk freely across your hands, supporting their full length. As a spirobolid millipede, their defensive secretions are benzoquinone-based — mildly irritating and capable of staining skin. Wash your hands after every handling session, and avoid touching your eyes or mouth.
Breeding
Breeding occurs readily in well-maintained enclosures. Females lay eggs in small chambers excavated in the substrate. Hatchlings emerge with only a few segments and leg pairs, gaining more with each moult over the following 1–2 years. Keep the substrate calcium-rich and deep to give young the best chance.