Centipede Overview
Centipedes can be found numerous locations in the globe but flourish mostly in tropical and temperate environments. They range in sizes from much less than inch to over a foot dependent on species. Centipedes are venomous, carnivorous and they are born hunters. Centipedes are some of the fastest arthropoda in existence. They're generally flat which assists them with speed. For the most component, centipedes are nocturnal arthropods. Most centipedes are long lived, some are recognized to live as much as six years. Centipede really indicates "hundred-legged" but they've anywhere from 15 to 180 pairs dependent on the species. Centipedes are land creatures but still need a moist environment to survive.
The home of a centipede generally consists of a dark, moist location. Some live in bark on the trees, under leaves or burrow generating their homes underground. They need moist places simply because they do not have the wax layer most insects have that keeps them from drying out.
Most centipedes come out at night to hunt. Dependent on species and size they will eat anything from very little insects to little rodents, birds or even bats. Centipedes will grasp their prey and then inject venom with their front claws, killing it. They'll then hold their prey with their front legs and maxillae while consuming the insect.
If a centipede feels threatened it will generally bite and inject venom into whatever it feels is threatening it. This venom is generally not extremely poisonous to humans. Its strength is compared to that of a bee or wasp sting. There are some species that do have nastier venom that will trigger cramps and sickness but most centipedes are not recognized to be deadly unless you're allergic.
Sexing Centipedes
Sexing a centipede is no easy job. Their genitals are actually inside the last segment of their body. In a good amount of centipede species the females grow slightly larger and fatter than the males. Other species of centipede have various colors within the two sexes. Lastly some species you are able to tell from searching at their terminal legs but you'd need to research your species to do this.
Breeding
First, do a little research on your species as some species mate differently than other people. Mating could be tricky and you need to keep an eye on your centipedes during this process. First get something that is large sufficient to give both of them a lot of running room for breeding. If either of them starts to show any type of aggressive behavior make certain to separate them instantly and try breeding them once more at a later time. If they don't seem to have interest within the other go ahead and separate them also. Dependent on your species the male will either approach the female or he will make what is known as sperm internet. If it is the kind that mates directly they will slowly touch antennae and then the male will proceed to approach the female backwards. This is to get their terminal legs entangled so he can transfer the spermaphore. If you have a species that makes a sperm web you may not even need risk putting them together. Attempt obtaining a tank with screen separating the two sides. Then put male and female on each side. Watch and see if the male puts down a sperm internet. If so then remove the male and open the rest of the tank up. With luck the female will go and collect it with no danger to either centipede.
As Pets
Centipedes are not observed as often within the pet market as other invertebrates such as tarantulas. They come in numerous sizes, colors and temperaments. Numerous are very aggressive eaters generating it enjoyable to watch them. They range in cost from a couple of dollars to over one hundred dollars dependent on the species.
Before purchasing a centipede there are a couple of issues to consider. Make sure to read up on the species you're purchasing because not all centipedes take the same exact kind of care. Also do realize they're NOT a pet that you generally wish to hold or play with. They are very aggressive and will bite if they really feel threatened. Most centipedes require warmth and moister. If you can not offer a warm sufficient environment, do not get 1 or you will be wasting your money as it'll die.
Ailments and Diseases
There's not a great deal of research into centipede ailments or diseases. Most which are in captivity end up dying from old age. You will find few issues you can watch out for. If your centipede isn't eating it might be caused by dehydration or being too cold. Make certain to give your centipede a lot of water and maintain it in a warm environment. An additional issue that can occur is fungus. In the event you see black dots appearing on them or growth around their legs or on antennae it may be which you are keeping your centipede too wet. If this will be the case remove the centipede from their current container and put them in with some paper towels along with a water dish till the fungus has cleared up. Don't wet the paper towels. You're attempting to keep a more sterile, clean and dry environment. Lastly mites are sometimes a issue. In the event you notice mites on your centipede the very best way to get rid of them is having a mite that eats other mites(Hypoaspis Mites). You can purchase these on-line.
