Scolopendromorph
Guides
Scolopendra polymorpha
Common Desert Centipede, Tiger Centipede, Banded Desert Centipede, Sonoran Desert Centipede, Multicolored Centipede
Scolopendra polymorpha is a large centipede species native to arid regions of western North America. Adults typically measure 10–18 cm in body length. The species exhibits highly variable coloration, with common forms showing a dark brown to black body with yellow legs and orange to red head, though some populations display entirely blue coloration with indigo stripes. It is primarily nocturnal and has been documented to exhibit cannibalistic behavior. The venom contains bioactive peptides with demonstrated antimicrobial properties against human pathogens.