Australian Giant Centipede

Ethmostigmus rubripes

CentipedeintermediateVenom: Moderate

Venom note

Potent venom; reported bite pain ranges from wasp-sting to severe and lasting days. Fast and defensive — no handling.

About

Australia's largest centipede, in colors from blue-green-brown to orange-yellow with black banding and yellow legs. Lightly built, long-legged, lightning-fast, and often aggressive (temperament varies by regional form). Hardy on slightly moist coco-peat in a sealed container with good ventilation to avoid fungal issues, room warmth (72-82°F), and a water dish; give it floor space to stretch out. Venom is potent and bites can be severe — escape-proof lid, no handling.

Taxonomy

FamilyScolopendridae

GenusEthmostigmus

Native regionAustralia, parts of Asia

TypeFossorial

Temperamentfast, aggressive (varies by form)

Size & growth

Adult size6-9 inches

Length130.00–230.00 mm

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature72–82 °F

Humidity60–75%

Enclosure

Adult sizesecure tight-lid tank; floor space to stretch; deep substrate

Substratemoist (not wet) coco fiber/peat for burrowing; hide; water dish

Substrate depth4-6 inches

Water dishRequired

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizecrickets, roaches, mealworms

Adult cadence1 prey per week

Times kept: 0