Tonkinbolus dollfusi
A dark-bodied Vietnamese millipede growing in popularity — needs warm, humid tropical conditions to thrive.
About Tonkinbolus dollfusi
T. dollfusi is a spirostreptid millipede native to Vietnam. Adults reach up to 12 cm and have a dark brown-to-black body, sometimes with subtle reddish tones on the legs. They are a relatively recent addition to the European and US hobby, becoming more widely available as captive-bred stock increases.
Like all millipedes, they are harmless detritivores — no venom, no bite. They are a tropical forest species and need consistently warm, humid conditions. Their care is straightforward provided you can maintain stable tropical parameters.
Enclosure
A glass or PVC terrarium of at least 30x20 cm floor space for a small group. Side ventilation is preferable to a fully mesh lid to retain warmth and humidity. Keep them at 24–28°C — supplemental heating (a heat mat on the side or back of the enclosure, thermostat-controlled) may be necessary in cooler climates. Avoid placing the heat mat under the enclosure, as this can dry out the substrate from below.
Substrate & humidity
Deep, moist, nutrient-rich substrate is essential. Provide at least 10–15 cm of:
- Well-decayed hardwood (oak, beech, ash) — the staple food source
- Coco coir for moisture retention
- Organic topsoil or leaf mould
- A thick surface layer of deciduous leaf litter
- Calcium sources mixed in — crushed cuttlebone, oyster shell, or limestone
Humidity must be kept at 75–85%. Mist regularly and monitor with a hygrometer. The substrate should feel damp throughout — never allow it to dry out. Softwood (cedar, pine, spruce) is toxic to all millipedes and must never be used.
Feeding
T. dollfusi feeds on decaying wood and leaf litter as its primary diet. Supplement with fresh vegetables — cucumber, courgette, sweet potato, and butternut squash are all accepted. Offer fruit occasionally (banana, apple) but remove leftovers promptly. Calcium is critical; keep cuttlefish bone permanently available in the enclosure.
Why intermediate?
This species is rated intermediate because of its tropical temperature requirements. At room temperature in most temperate homes (18–20°C), T. dollfusi will be sluggish, feed poorly, and may not survive long term. You need to provide and maintain consistent warmth of 24–28°C, which usually means a thermostat-controlled heat source. If you can manage that, the rest of their care is standard.
Handling & defence
T. dollfusi handles reasonably well once settled. Support the full body and let them walk freely. Their defensive secretions can irritate skin and mucous membranes — wash hands after every handling session. Never handle a millipede during or within two weeks of a moult, as the new exoskeleton is soft and easily damaged.
Breeding
Breeding is possible in well-maintained tropical enclosures. Females lay eggs in chambers in the substrate. Hatchlings emerge with only a few body segments, gaining additional segments and leg pairs at each moult. Ensure deep, calcium-rich substrate and stable warmth to support developing young. Growth to maturity takes 1–2 years.