Sphaerotheriidae

Sphaerotheriidae is a family of millipedes belonging to the order Sphaerotheriida. These millipedes are commonly known as giant pill millipedes or giant pill millipedes due to their ability to roll into a tight ball when threatened, a characteristic shared with the armadillo. This defensive mechanism protects their soft undersides from predators.

The family is found primarily in southern Africa, with a few species extending into Madagascar and Australia. They inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and scrublands, often found in moist leaf litter or under rocks and logs. Sphaerotheriids are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, and play an important role in nutrient cycling within their ecosystems.

Giant pill millipedes are among the largest millipedes, with some species reaching lengths of up to 10 centimeters (4 inches). They possess a robust, segmented body covered by a series of hardened plates. Their coloration varies, often featuring shades of brown, black, or reddish-brown, sometimes with metallic or iridescent patterns. They have a relatively slow metabolism and can live for several years. Reproduction involves males transferring sperm to females, and the females lay eggs in underground chambers. Their larval stages resemble smaller versions of the adults, undergoing several molts as they grow.