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Australian Giant Centipede

Ethmostigmus rubripes

Ethmostigmus • Scolopendridae

intermediate
Australian Giant Centipede (Ethmostigmus rubripes)
Jackson Nugent, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

Australia's largest centipede, in colors from blue-green-brown to orange-yellow with black banding and yellow legs. Lightly built, long-legged, lightning-fast, and often aggressive (temperament varies by regional form). Hardy on slightly moist coco-peat in a sealed container with good ventilation to avoid fungal issues, room warmth (72-82°F), and a water dish; give it floor space to stretch out. Venom is potent and bites can be severe — escape-proof lid, no handling.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

72-82°F

Humidity

60-75%

Enclosure Sizes

Adult:secure tight-lid tank; floor space to stretch; deep substrate

Substrate

Type:moist (not wet) coco fiber/peat for burrowing; hide; water dish
Depth:4-6 inches

Feeding Schedule

Adult:1 prey per week

Prey size: crickets, roaches, mealworms

Quick Stats

Type

fossorial

Adult Size

6-9 inches

Growth Rate

medium

Native Region

Australia, parts of Asia

Temperament

fast, aggressive (varies by form)

Behavior

Webbing—
BurrowingYes
Water DishRequired

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