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Giant Fire Millipede

Pelmatojulus ligulatus

PelmatojulusPachybolidae

intermediate

Overview

A vivid orange-red West African round-back — a beautiful but more demanding species because it is a rotting-wood specialist. It feeds almost exclusively on decaying hardwood, dead leaves, and lichen and often refuses standard produce, so a deep, well-decomposed woody substrate is essential. Keep warm (75-82°F) and very humid (75-90%) with frequent misting. Note: some vendor listings quote lengths up to ~13 in for the genus; ~5-6 in is a more realistic mature size. Docile; wash hands before and after handling.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

75-82°F

Humidity

75-90%

Enclosure Sizes

Adult:terrestrial tank with deep substrate; good ventilation

Substrate

Type:deep organic-rich coco/soil + lots of rotting hardwood, dead leaves & lichen
Depth:4-6 inches

Feeding Schedule

Adult:continuous — leaf litter, decaying hardwood, veg + calcium

Prey size: n/a (detritivore)

Quick Stats

Type

terrestrial

Adult Size

~5-6 in (130-160 mm)

Growth Rate

slow

Native Region

West Africa

Temperament

docile, harmless detritivore

Behavior

Webbing
BurrowingYes
Water DishOptional

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