Giant African Millipede

Archispirostreptus gigas

The giant African millipede (Archispirostreptus gigas) is a large detritivorous millipede from tropical and subtropical parts of Africa. Its long dark cylindrical body is made of many segments, each carrying paired legs that move in slow waves. In the wild it helps break down leaf litter, rotting wood, and other decaying plant material on the forest floor. When disturbed, it curls into a coil and may release defensive fluids that can irritate skin or stain hands.

As a display or pet invertebrate, it needs a warm humid enclosure with deep organic substrate, leaf litter, rotten hardwood, and hiding places. Diets often include decaying leaves, vegetables, fruit in moderation, and calcium sources for molts and exoskeleton health. Ventilation must balance moisture with mold control. Handling should be gentle and infrequent, with handwashing afterward. Breeders watch substrate quality, egg and juvenile survival, and the presence of mites, which may be harmless cleaners or a sign that conditions are too wet and dirty.