Amazonian Giant Centipede
Species Description

The Amazonian Giant Centipede, scientifically known as Scolopendra gigantea, holds the distinction of being the largest centipede species in the world. This impressive arthropod goes by several common names that reflect both its geographic range and distinctive appearance. The Peruvian Giant Centipede references one of the many South American countries where this species can be found, while Giant Yellow Leg Centipede and Giant Orange Leg Centipede describe the striking coloration of its numerous appendages.

The genus name Scolopendra derives from ancient Greek, referring to a type of venomous creature, while the species epithet gigantea directly references the animal's exceptional size. Within the scientific community and hobbyist circles, this species is often abbreviated as S. gigantea. The common name Amazonian Giant Centipede has become the most widely used designation in the exotic pet trade, though keepers should be aware that several other large Scolopendra species are sometimes sold under similar names.

This species belongs to the family Scolopendridae within the order Scolopendromorpha, placing it among the largest and most formidable of all centipede families. Unlike the related Scolopendra subspinipes complex from Asia, which includes several subspecies with varying characteristics, S. gigantea is a distinct species with consistent morphological features across its range. The taxonomy of giant centipedes has been refined over the years, and proper identification is important for keepers seeking accurate care information.

The Amazonian Giant Centipede is an unmistakable animal that commands immediate attention due to its exceptional size. Adults regularly reach 10-12 inches in length, with exceptional specimens recorded at over 12 inches, making this the largest centipede species documented. The body is dorsoventrally flattened and segmented, typically comprising 21-23 body segments, each bearing a single pair of legs for a total of 42-46 legs despite the name centipede suggesting one hundred.

The coloration of S. gigantea is variable but typically consists of a dark brown to reddish-brown body with contrasting yellow, orange, or amber-colored legs. The head bears a pair of prominent antennae used for sensing the environment, and the distinctive forcipules are visible as modified front legs that have evolved into venom-delivering fangs. These forcipules are muscular and powerful, capable of penetrating skin and injecting potent venom into prey or perceived threats.

The exoskeleton provides protection while remaining flexible enough to allow the sinuous movements characteristic of centipede locomotion. Each body segment features a tergite on the dorsal surface and a sternite on the ventral surface, connected by flexible pleural membranes. The final pair of legs is notably larger and more robust than the others, serving defensive and sensory functions rather than locomotion. These terminal legs are often held elevated and can be mistaken for a second head, potentially confusing predators.

The respiratory system consists of spiracles located on specific body segments, which open to a network of tracheae delivering oxygen directly to tissues. This system, while efficient for their active lifestyle, makes centipedes vulnerable to dehydration as they lack the waterproof cuticle found in many other arthropods. Fine sensory hairs cover the body and legs, allowing the centipede to detect vibrations and air movements that signal prey or danger.

The Amazonian Giant Centipede has earned a reputation as one of the most aggressive and dangerous invertebrates kept in captivity. This species displays highly defensive behavior and will not hesitate to strike when disturbed, feeling threatened, or given any opportunity. Unlike tarantulas or scorpions that may give warning displays before attacking, S. gigantea can strike with lightning speed and without apparent provocation. This unpredictable nature makes them unsuitable for any keeper seeking a handleable pet.

In captivity, this species is considered the most aggressive of the commonly kept giant centipedes. They are persistent escape artists that will actively test enclosure security and exploit any gap or weakness. Experienced keepers recommend distracting them with food when performing any enclosure maintenance that requires the lid to remain open for extended periods. Long forceps or similar tools should always be used to manipulate items within the enclosure, and keepers must remain vigilant at all times.

Despite their formidable reputation, Amazonian Giant Centipedes display fascinating natural behaviors when observed safely. They are primarily nocturnal, becoming most active during evening hours when they patrol their territory searching for prey. Their hunting strategy combines ambush tactics with active pursuit, using their speed and powerful venom to subdue a remarkable variety of prey. In captivity, they may become more visible during evening feeding times and can be quite entertaining to observe from a safe distance.

This species is strictly solitary and must always be housed alone. Centipedes show no social behavior whatsoever and will readily cannibalize conspecifics. Females do display maternal care, brooding their eggs until hatching, but this brief period represents the only time two individuals can be found together without conflict. Territorial aggression extends to their behavior in captivity, where they will defend their enclosure aggressively against any perceived intrusion.

The activity level of S. gigantea distinguishes it from many other invertebrates kept as pets. Rather than spending extended periods motionless in a hide, this species actively explores its environment, climbs vertical surfaces, and investigates new stimuli. This makes them more engaging to observe than more sedentary species, though their dangerous nature means observation must always occur through the enclosure walls, never with the lid removed.

Housing an Amazonian Giant Centipede requires careful attention to both physical containment and environmental conditions. The enclosure must be absolutely escape-proof, as this species is notorious for exploiting even minor gaps in lids or ventilation. Adults require a minimum enclosure size of 15-20 gallons, with dimensions at least twice the animal's length and equally wide. The enclosure should be secured with multiple clips or locks, and many keepers apply a band of petroleum jelly around the upper interior lip as additional insurance against escape.

Unlike purely terrestrial invertebrates, S. gigantea is semi-arboreal and will readily climb rough surfaces including bark, rock structures, and even the silicone seams of glass enclosures. The enclosure height should be sufficient to prevent escape while also providing climbing opportunities through vertical cork bark pieces, sturdy branches, or artificial structures. This three-dimensional use of space reflects their natural behavior and contributes to their overall well-being.

Substrate depth should be 4-6 inches to allow for burrowing behavior. Appropriate substrate options include coconut fiber, organic potting soil without additives, or a mixture of these materials. The substrate should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, with the moisture level sufficient to clump when squeezed but not release excess water. A layer of leaf litter, sphagnum moss, or cork bark pieces on the surface helps retain moisture and provides additional hiding opportunities.

Temperature should be maintained between 75-85°F, reflecting the tropical conditions of their native habitat. Room temperature in most homes may be insufficient, requiring supplemental heating via an under-tank heater covering no more than one-third of the enclosure floor to create a thermal gradient. Heat lamps are not recommended as they can dry out the enclosure and disturb the centipede's nocturnal activity patterns. A reliable thermometer should be used to monitor conditions.

Humidity must remain high at 75-85%, achieved through daily misting with dechlorinated water, maintaining moist substrate, and providing a water dish. The enclosure should retain humidity while still allowing adequate airflow to prevent stagnant conditions that promote bacterial and fungal growth. A hygrometer helps monitor humidity levels accurately. During molting periods, humidity should be increased, and the animal must not be disturbed under any circumstances. Remove all live prey items when pre-molt signs appear to prevent injury to the vulnerable centipede.

The Amazonian Giant Centipede is a voracious carnivore capable of subduing and consuming prey ranging from small insects to vertebrates in the wild. In captivity, a varied diet of appropriately sized prey items ensures optimal nutrition and mimics natural feeding behavior. This species is an enthusiastic feeder that rarely refuses meals except during pre-molt periods, making feeding straightforward compared to some pickier invertebrates.

Primary feeder insects including crickets, dubia roaches, discoid roaches, and other appropriately sized cockroach species form the foundation of a captive diet. Prey items should generally be smaller than or equal to the width of the centipede's body to prevent feeding difficulties or injury. Adults can be offered 2-4 appropriately sized prey items weekly, though feeding frequency can be adjusted based on the individual's appetite and body condition.

Superior specimens may accept larger prey items including mealworms, superworms, and hornworms as dietary variety. While wild S. gigantea are documented consuming small vertebrates including mice, frogs, lizards, and even bats, vertebrate prey is not necessary in captivity and raises ethical considerations. If offered, pinky mice represent the maximum size appropriate, and feeding vertebrate prey results in messier conditions requiring more frequent spot cleaning.

The venom delivery system of S. gigantea is highly efficient at subduing prey. The modified front legs, called forcipules, inject a cocktail of neurotoxins and enzymes that rapidly paralyze prey and begin the digestive process. Watching the feeding response demonstrates the remarkable predatory capabilities of this species, as they can strike and subdue prey with astonishing speed and precision.

Water should always be available through a shallow water dish that cannot tip over and is shallow enough to prevent drowning. Some keepers prefer to omit standing water and rely on substrate moisture and misting, but a small dish provides additional hydration options. The water dish should be cleaned and refilled regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Prey items should be gut-loaded with nutritious foods before offering, and dusting with calcium and vitamin supplements once weekly may provide additional nutritional benefits, though this remains a topic of debate among experienced keepers.

Amazonian Giant Centipedes are generally hardy animals when their environmental requirements are properly maintained. The primary health concerns relate to improper husbandry, particularly regarding humidity levels, temperature, and molting conditions. Unlike vertebrate pets, invertebrates cannot be treated by most veterinarians, making prevention through proper care the most effective health management strategy. Keepers should learn to recognize signs of good health including active behavior, regular feeding response, and successful molts.

With proper husbandry attention to humidity, temperature, and security, Amazonian Giant Centipedes can live 7-10 years in captivity. Their hardiness when conditions are appropriate makes them rewarding for experienced keepers who respect their dangerous nature and maintain appropriate safety protocols during all interactions with the enclosure.

The Amazonian Giant Centipede must never be handled under any circumstances. This cannot be stressed strongly enough. The combination of medically significant venom, unpredictable aggression, and lightning-fast strike speed makes any direct contact extremely dangerous. At least one human death has been attributed to S. gigantea, and countless painful envenomations occur annually in regions where humans encounter these animals.

The venom of S. gigantea contains a complex mixture of neurotoxins and enzymes designed to rapidly subdue prey. In humans, envenomation causes immediate, intense pain at the bite site, followed by swelling, redness, and potentially systemic effects including fever, dizziness, cardiac irregularities, and breathing difficulties. While most healthy adults recover without lasting effects, children, elderly individuals, and those with compromised immune systems face significantly greater risks. Medical attention should be sought immediately following any bite.

All enclosure maintenance must be performed using long forceps, tongs, or similar tools that keep hands well away from the animal. When the enclosure must be opened, the centipede should be distracted with food or confined to one area using a barrier. Some keepers use leather welding gloves as an additional safety measure, though these cannot be considered bite-proof against the powerful forcipules of a large specimen.

Rehousing presents particular challenges and should only be performed when absolutely necessary. The safest method involves placing the current enclosure inside a larger container, opening the lid, and gently encouraging the centipede into a catch cup or new enclosure using a long-handled tool. Never attempt to grasp or restrain the centipede directly. Having a second person present during rehousing operations is strongly recommended in case of escape or emergency.

This species should be considered a display animal only, providing observation opportunities through the enclosure walls. Their active nature and impressive size make them fascinating to watch, and many keepers find great satisfaction in maintaining these remarkable predators without any need for direct interaction. The reward of successful husbandry comes from creating optimal conditions and observing natural behaviors, not from physical contact.

The Amazonian Giant Centipede is strictly recommended for expert-level keepers only. This is not an appropriate species for beginners, casual hobbyists, or anyone seeking a handleable pet invertebrate. The combination of medically significant venom, aggressive temperament, and demanding environmental requirements makes S. gigantea one of the most challenging invertebrates available in the hobby.

Prospective keepers should honestly evaluate their experience level and facilities before acquiring this species. Prerequisites include significant experience with other venomous invertebrates, a dedicated space for a secure enclosure away from children and pets, and the ability to maintain tropical humidity and temperature conditions year-round. The financial commitment extends beyond the initial purchase to include proper enclosure setup, heating equipment, monitoring devices, and ongoing feeder costs.

Household considerations are paramount when keeping any venomous animal. Families with children, frequent visitors, or other pets face elevated risks that may make this species inappropriate regardless of keeper experience. The enclosure must be absolutely secure and ideally locked to prevent accidental opening. All family members should be aware of the animal and understand the importance of never opening or disturbing the enclosure.

Legal restrictions may apply depending on location. Some jurisdictions regulate or prohibit the keeping of venomous invertebrates, and prospective keepers should research local laws before acquiring any centipede species. Landlords and insurance companies may also have policies regarding venomous animal keeping that should be verified in advance.

For those with appropriate experience and facilities, the Amazonian Giant Centipede offers unique rewards unavailable from safer species. Their impressive size, active behavior, and powerful predatory capabilities make them genuinely fascinating animals to maintain and observe. Successful husbandry provides deep satisfaction for keepers who appreciate these remarkable creatures on their own terms, requiring nothing more than the ability to watch an apex invertebrate predator thrive in conditions that replicate its tropical forest home.