Scutigeridae

Common Name

House Centipedes

Overview

Scutigeridae is a family within the order Scutigeromorpha characterized primarily by their distinctive appearance and rapid movement. These centipedes are known for their exceptional speed and are often found indoors, particularly in human dwellings.

Taxonomy

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Chilopoda
• Order: Scutigeromorpha
• Family: Scutigeridae

Key Characteristics

• Body Shape: Elongated and segmented body with a total of 15 pairs of long, slender legs.
• Antennae: Long, filamentous antennae that are typically longer than their body.
• Eyes: Large, well-developed compound eyes that can detect motion and low-light conditions.
• Color: Typically grayish-yellow with longitudinal dark stripes.

Life Cycle

• Eggs: Laid in moist environments, with most species laying eggs singly or in small groups.
• Juveniles: Hatch with fewer pairs of legs and molt multiple times, gradually adding more segments and legs with each molt.
• Adults: Reach maturity after several molts and can live for several years.

Behavior and Ecology

• Habitat: Prefer damp indoor environments like basements, bathrooms, and under sinks, but can also be found outdoors under logs and rocks.
• Feeding: Carnivorous, preying on other small arthropods such as termites, silverfish, ants, and spiders.
• Movement: Notable for their ability to move quickly across surfaces to capture prey or flee from threats.

Notable Species

• Scutigera coleoptrata: Common house centipede, widely distributed and known for its presence in human homes.

Conservation

House centipedes are generally not considered to be at risk. They are more commonly managed for their presence in human dwellings rather than in their natural habitats.

Significance to Humans

House centipedes are often seen as unwelcome guests in homes, yet they play a beneficial role by controlling populations of other pest insects.

Fun Facts

• Speedy Hunters: House centipedes can run up to 0.4 meters per second.
• Legally Lengthy: Their legs can extend up to three times the length of their body.
• Unique Vision: Unlike most centipedes, Scutigeridae have developed compound eyes.
• Climbing Capabilities: They can climb walls and even hang upside-down from ceilings.
• Nocturnal: Primarily active during the night.