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Scutigeromorpha

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Centipedes

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Scutigera coleoptrata

Centipedes are myriapods They are part of the Chilopoda class, which includes around 3,500 known species. This small animal can grow to a length of 2.6 cm. On its head are a pair of long filiform antennae that act as auditory receptors. Its segmented body, which ranges from beige to greyish yellow in colour, is often marked by three darker stripes running lengthwise along its back. Its belly is whitish.

Centipedes have long, thin legs with alternating light and dark stripes. Its back legs are longer than its front legs, allowing the insect to run more quickly, as its back legs can move close to its front legs without interference. Its last pair of legs contains sensory organs and is not used for locomotion, but acts a bit like a second pair of antennae situated at the other extremity of the body.

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