Caring for your Scarlet Millipede
Scarlet Millipede
(Trigoniulus corallinus)
Basic Information:
Scarlet Millipedes are beautifully colored, smooth-bodied millipedes known for their bright red or orange segments contrasted with darker legs and antennae. Native to Southeast Asia, they inhabit warm forest floors rich in leaf litter and decaying wood. They are nocturnal scavengers, spending most of the day burrowed beneath substrate and becoming active at night to feed and explore. These millipedes are gentle, low-maintenance invertebrates ideal for beginners.
Lifespan:
2 to 4 years in captivity
Sexing:
As with most millipedes:
Males possess modified legs (gonopods) on the 7th segment.
Females have uniform walking legs across all segments.
Sexing is easiest when gently viewing the underside while the millipede moves.
Size:
Up to 3 to 5 inches (30–38 cm) long
Enclosure:
Minimum 12” x 12” x 12” for several individuals.
Provide deep substrate (3–5 inches) for burrowing.
Add cork bark, leaf litter, and decaying wood.
Substrate:
Use Critters, Reptiles & Exotics ISOPOD & MILLIPEDE Substrate to ensure a proper food source, and humidity level.
Lighting & Temperature:
Ambient Temperature: 72-80°F
No special lighting required; avoid direct sunlight or heat sources—millipedes overheat easily.
Humidity:
High humidity preferred, around 70-85%
Mist daily or as needed to keep substrate evenly damp but never waterlogged.
Food:
Scarlette Millipedes are detritivores.
Offer:
Leaf litter (primary food source)
Decaying wood
Vegetables ((zucchini, carrot, sweet potato)
Occasional fruit (apple, melon)
Offer a small protein source (fish flakes or shrimp) once weekly.
Provide a supplemental calcium source such as cuttlebone or crushed eggshell.
Handling:
Millipedes are peaceful and may be gently handled.
Always wash hands afterward.
Avoid rough handling—they are fragile.
They thrive in small groups, which encourages natural behaviors.
Colorful, gentle, and very low maintenance, Scarlet Millipedes are perfect for hobbyists seeking a simple yet fascinating invertebrate. Their slow, deliberate movement and role as natural recyclers make them excellent additions to bioactive displays and educational setups.
Are Scarlet Millipedes available at a Local Pet Store Near Me?
If you're coming from Carroll County, Maryland, stop into Critters, Reptiles & Exotics in Frederick, MD right off of I-70, to check availability and get everything you need to set up a thriving millipede habitat. There’s always a new adventure waiting at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics!