Caring for your Pink Dragon Millipede
Pink Dragon Millipede
(Desmoxytes purpurosea)
Basic Information:
The Pink Dragon Millipede is one of the most striking arthropods in the hobby, famous for its vibrant hot-pink coloration and dragon-like spines. Native to the humid forests of Thailand, this species is exceptionally small but highly active, preferring to crawl along bark and leaf litter. Pink Dragon Millipedes are known for producing cyanide-based defensive compounds, making them a look-but-don’t-touch exhibit species. They thrive in humid, densely planted enclosures and do best in small groups.
Lifespan:
2 to 3 years in captivity
Sexing:
Sexing follows the standard millipede method:
Males have modified gonopod legs on the 7th segment.
Females have uninterrupted walking legs.
Examine while the millipede walks across a clear surface for best visibility.
Size:
Adults typically reach 1 to 1.5 inches in length, making them one of the smaller and more manageable millipede species
Enclosure:
Minimum size: 8” x 8” x 8” for a colony
Deep leaf litter layer with plenty of hiding spaces
Add cork bark, decaying wood, and moss for climbing and cover
Excellent ventilation is important to prevent stagnation
A horizontal setup with 3–4 inches of substrate is ideal, along with cork bark, moss, and leaf litter for hiding and burrowing.
Substrate:
Use Critters, Reptiles & Exotics ISOPOD & MILLIPEDE Substrate to ensure a proper food source, and humidity level.
Lighting & Temperature:
Ambient Temperature: 72-78°F
No special lighting required; avoid direct sunlight or heat sources
Humidity:
High humidity preferred, around 85–95%
Mist enclosure lightly every few days
Provide a shallow water dish for hydration.
Food:
Pink Dragon Millipedes are detritivores. Offer:
Leaf litter (their primary food)
Rotten wood
Vegetables (carrot, cucumber, squash)
Occasional fruit (apple, banana)
A calcium source (powdered limestone, cuttlebone)
Remove uneaten fresh produce within 24 hours.
Handling:
Generally safe to handle gently but avoid stressing the millipede
Wash hands after handling, as millipedes can secrete mild irritants
When threatened, Bumblebee Millipedes curl into a tight spiral to protect their vulnerable underside, showcasing their armored segments.
Pink Dragon Millipedes are visually stunning and fascinating to observe, making them perfect for bioactive displays and naturalistic vivaria. Their bright coloration and unusual defensive chemistry make them one of the most unique millipedes available in the hobby.
Are Pink Dragon Millipedes For Sale at a Pet Store Near Me?
If you're in Montgomery County, Maryland, stop by Critters, Reptiles & Exotics in Frederick, MD to check availability of Pink Dragon Millipedes and other exotic invertebrates. Our staff can help you set up the perfect humid, naturalistic enclosure for these vibrant little creatures. There’s always a new adventure waiting at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics!