Archispirostreptus gigas
| Archistrepturus gigas | |
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| Species: | A. gigas
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| Archispirostreptus gigas (Peters, 1855)
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Archispirostreptus gigas, the giant African millipede, is one of the largest millipedes, growing up to 38.5 centimetres (15.2 in) in length, 67 millimetres (2.6 in) in circumference, and has 256 legs.[1]
It is a widespread species in lowland parts of East Africa, from Mozambique to Kenya, but rarely reaches altitudes above 1,000 metres (3,300 ft).[2] It lives mostly in forests, but can also be found in areas of coastal habitat which contain at least a few trees.[2] It is known in Zulu as amashongololo.[3]
A. gigas is black in colour, and is often kept as a pet. In general, giant millipedes have an life expectancy of about 7–10 years.[4] Giant millipedes have two main modes of defence if they feel threatened: curling into a tight spiral exposing only the hard exoskeleton, and secretion of an irritating liquid from pores on their body. This liquid can be harmful if introduced into the eyes or mouth.[4]
References
- ^ Mark Carwardine (2008). "Centipedes and millipedes". Animal Records. Sterling Publishing Company. pp. 216–217. ISBN 9781402756238.
- ^ a b R. L. Hoffman (2000). "Millipedes". In Neil D. Burgess & G. Philip Clarke (ed.). Coastal forests of Eastern Africa. IUCN. ISBN 9782831704364.
- ^ Shelley Wood Gauld (2006). "Glossary". Much Bigger Than Grownups: Chronicles of a Native South African. Lulu Enterprises. pp. 223–236. ISBN 9781411682177.
- ^ a b "Giant African millipede". Oakland Zoo. Retrieved May 22, 2009.
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