Centipeder

Centipeder, commonly referred to as centipedes in English, are predatory arthropods belonging to the class Chilopoda. They are elongated, flattened animals composed of many body segments, and most species bear a single pair of legs on each segment. The name centipede derives from Latin and means “hundred feet,” though few species actually have exactly 100 legs. Centipeder are diverse and occur in a wide range of habitats worldwide, especially in moist microhabitats such as leaf litter, soil, under stones, or in decaying wood.

Anatomically, centipeder have a distinct head with antennae and mouthparts, followed by a trunk of repeating segments. The first pair of legs is modified into venomous forcipules used to capture prey and inject venom. The remaining segments each carry one pair of legs. They possess an external exoskeleton made of chitin and rely on moist surfaces and, in some groups, tracheal systems for respiration. Body size and leg length vary greatly among species, from a few millimeters to several centimeters.

Ecology and behavior: centipeder are active, nocturnal predators. They feed on insects, spiders, earthworms, and other small invertebrates, using speed and venom to subdue prey. Most are terrestrial and prefer damp environments; some species are highly adapted to living in caves or under stones.

Reproduction and development: centipeder reproduce sexually. Males deposit spermatophores, and females lay eggs in protected locations. Development is typically gradual (no larval stage), with juveniles resembling small adults and adding segments and legs through molts as they grow.

Impact on humans and conservation: centipeder are generally beneficial for pest control and rarely pose a serious threat to healthy people; bites from large species can be painful but are rarely dangerous. They are not broadly endangered, though habitat loss can threaten localized species.