Scolopendridae

Common Name

Centipedes

Overview

Scolopendridae is a large family of centipedes within the class Chilopoda. They are among the most recognizable and widely distributed centipedes globally, known for their segmented bodies and numerous legs. These predatory arthropods are notable for their size and the potent venom they use to subdue prey.

Taxonomy

• Kingdom : Animalia
• Phylum : Arthropoda
• Class : Chilopoda
• Order : Scolopendromorpha
• Family : Scolopendridae

Key Characteristics

• Body : Long and flattened with many segments
• Legs : Typically one pair per body segment, often totaling 21-23 pairs
• Antennae : Long and multi-segmented
• Eyes : Simple and often reduced
• Venom : Delivered through modified front legs (forcipules)

Life Cycle

• Egg : Laid singly or in small clusters, often guarded by the female
• Larvae : Hatch with fewer leg pairs; acquire more as they molt
• Juvenile : Continues to molt, adding segments and legs with each molt
• Adult : Fully developed with the characteristic number of leg pairs; capable of reproduction

Behavior and Ecology

• Habitat : Typically found in moist environments such as under logs, rocks, and leaf litter
• Diet : Carnivorous, preying on insects, spiders, and small vertebrates
• Activity : Nocturnal predators
• Defense : Uses venom to deter predators and subdue prey

Notable Species

• Scolopendra gigantea : One of the largest centipedes, found in South America
• Scolopendra heros : Known as the giant desert centipede, found in the southwestern United States
• Scolopendra subspinipes : Southeast Asian species, known for its painful bite

Conservation

• Status : Generally not endangered, though habitat destruction can impact local populations
• Threats : Habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change

Significance to Humans

• Medical : Venomous bites can cause pain and localized swelling in humans; severe allergic reactions are rare
• Ecological : Serve as important predators in their ecosystems, helping control populations of insects and other small animals

Fun Facts

• Some Scolopendridae can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long.
• Centipedes of this family can exhibit maternal care, with females guarding their eggs.
• Their venom contains toxins that can affect the cardiovascular and nervous systems of their prey.
• They are agile hunters and can move quickly to catch their prey.
• Fossil records indicate that centipedes have been around for over 400 million years.