North American giant millipede
You can see North American giant millipedes
in the Insectarium’s Great Vivarium.
Reaching lengths of up to 12 cm, this millipede species is the largest in Canada. It is also the most common along the eastern coast of North America.
A millipede’s antennae are highly sensitive and versatile. They detect smells, tastes, temperature, and humidity. They also respond to touch and help locate sexual pheromones.
At birth, this species has only three pairs of legs. With each moult, it gains more—eventually reaching up to 90 pairs!
Defence mechanisms
Because it moves slowly, the giant North American giant millipede relies on other means of defence besides speed. For example, it can hide in the soil.
Its rigid exoskeleton protects its vulnerable parts when it curls into a ball. It can also secrete a coloured, strong-smelling liquid that repels potential predators.
Reproduction
The breeding season of the giant North American giant millipede lasts from late spring to fall.
To initiate mating, the male leaves traces of sexual pheromones on the ground. When a female approaches, he attempts to stimulate her by climbing onto her back and walking along her body.
After mating, the female lays one egg per nest. Each nest is lined with chewed leaves and feces. Egg incubation last from 14 to 75 days.
The young giant millipedes reach maturity at around one to two years of age.
