Florida Ivory Millipede
Species Description

The Ivory Millipede, scientifically classified as Chicobolus spinigerus, derives its common name from the distinctive ivory-white or cream-colored bands that run along the sides of its body segments. This striking coloration creates a beautiful contrast against the darker brown or black dorsal surface, making it one of the most visually appealing millipede species native to North America.

This species is also commonly known as the Florida Ivory Millipede, referencing its primary range in the southeastern United States. Some hobbyists and dealers may also refer to color variants, such as the Purple Ivory Millipede, which displays a subtle purple or violet iridescence on its exoskeleton under certain lighting conditions. These purple individuals are the same species but represent a naturally occurring color variation that is particularly prized by collectors.

The genus name Chicobolus places this species within a group of round-bodied millipedes native to North America. The species epithet spinigerus refers to the small spines or projections found on the body segments, though these are quite small and do not pose any handling concerns. Within the millipede hobby, this species has earned a reputation as perhaps the most beginner-friendly option available, combining attractive appearance with exceptional hardiness.

The Ivory Millipede presents a cylindrical, elongated body typical of the order Julida, with adults reaching lengths of 4 to 5 inches when fully mature. The body is composed of numerous segments, each bearing two pairs of legs, with the total leg count varying based on the individual's age and size. The overall body shape is robust and rounded, giving the animal a satisfying heft when held.

The most distinctive feature of this species is its coloration pattern. The dorsal surface displays a rich chocolate brown to nearly black coloration, while the lateral portions of each segment are marked with broad ivory-white or cream-colored bands. This creates a striking striped appearance when viewed from the side. The ventral surface and legs are typically lighter in color, ranging from tan to pale brown.

Some individuals, particularly those from certain localities or breeding lines, exhibit a purple or violet iridescence that becomes visible under certain lighting conditions. This purple sheen develops as juveniles mature and can create a truly stunning display animal. The head is small and rounded, featuring short antennae that the millipede uses to navigate its environment and locate food sources.

The exoskeleton is smooth and glossy, with a waxy appearance that helps retain moisture. Unlike centipedes, millipedes lack venomous fangs and cannot bite in any meaningful way. The legs are relatively short compared to the body length, giving the animal a low profile as it moves across surfaces with a characteristic wave-like motion of its many limbs.

The Ivory Millipede is renowned throughout the invertebrate hobby for its exceptionally calm and docile temperament. Unlike many arthropod species that display defensive behaviors when disturbed, this millipede typically responds to handling by curling slightly or simply continuing its slow, methodical movement. This gentle disposition makes them ideal candidates for keepers who wish to occasionally handle their invertebrates.

When threatened or stressed, Ivory Millipedes may curl into a loose spiral, protecting their softer ventral surface with their harder dorsal plates. They may also secrete a defensive fluid from glands along their body segments. This secretion appears as a brown liquid that can stain skin and clothing and may cause mild irritation to sensitive individuals. However, this defensive response is rarely triggered by gentle handling and is more commonly seen when the animal is roughly handled or feels genuinely threatened.

These millipedes are primarily nocturnal, becoming most active during evening and nighttime hours. During the day, they typically rest beneath substrate, inside cork bark hides, or under leaf litter within their enclosure. However, they are more surface-active than many burrowing millipede species, and keepers can often observe them exploring their enclosure during twilight hours or when the room is dimly lit.

Ivory Millipedes are highly tolerant of conspecifics and can be housed communally without aggression concerns. They show no territorial behavior and will often rest in groups, sometimes even piling on top of one another in favored hiding spots. This social tolerance makes them excellent candidates for group displays where multiple individuals can be observed interacting naturally.

Their movement is characterized by the mesmerizing wave-like motion of their many legs, moving in coordinated ripples from back to front. This locomotion is relatively slow and deliberate, making them easy to monitor during handling sessions. They are not prone to sudden, erratic movements that might startle inexperienced keepers.

Housing Ivory Millipedes requires attention to a few key environmental parameters, but their forgiving nature makes them suitable for beginners learning the fundamentals of invertebrate husbandry. A standard 5 to 10 gallon enclosure provides adequate space for one or several adult specimens, with larger enclosures recommended for breeding colonies or groups of six or more individuals.

The substrate is the single most critical element of millipede husbandry, as it serves simultaneously as the animal's habitat, primary food source, and moisture reservoir. An ideal substrate mix consists of organic topsoil, decomposed hardwood leaves, rotting hardwood, and coconut fiber or peat moss. This mixture should be free of pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals. Commercial millipede substrates are available and provide a balanced nutritional foundation. The substrate depth should be at least 4 to 6 inches to allow for natural burrowing behavior and to maintain stable humidity levels.

Substrate moisture is maintained by keeping the bottom layers moist while allowing the surface to dry slightly between mistings. This gradient allows the millipede to select its preferred humidity level by moving between substrate depths. Overwatering should be avoided, as waterlogged conditions promote bacterial and fungal growth that can harm your millipedes. A shallow water dish can be provided for drinking, though many millipedes obtain sufficient moisture from their substrate and food.

Temperature requirements are straightforward, with room temperature conditions between 72-78°F being ideal. Supplemental heating is typically unnecessary unless your home drops below 65°F consistently. If heating is required, an under-tank heat mat placed on one side of the enclosure can create a gentle thermal gradient. Avoid heat lamps, which can rapidly dry out the enclosure and lead to dehydration.

Ventilation is important to prevent stagnant air and mold growth while maintaining adequate humidity. Enclosures with mesh lids may require more frequent misting to maintain humidity levels. Plastic storage containers with ventilation holes drilled into the sides or lid work well and retain moisture better than screen-topped terrariums.

Furnishings should include hiding spots such as cork bark flats, pieces of rotting hardwood, and a generous layer of dried leaves on the substrate surface. These elements provide security, additional food sources, and help maintain the humid microenvironment that millipedes require. Live plants can be included but are not necessary and may be damaged by the millipedes' feeding activities.

Ivory Millipedes are detritivores, meaning they primarily consume decaying organic matter, particularly decomposing plant material. In captivity, the substrate itself serves as their main food source, which is why using a nutritionally appropriate substrate mix is essential for long-term health. A quality substrate containing decomposed hardwood, leaf litter, and organic matter will provide the foundation of their diet.

The substrate should be composed of materials that millipedes can process and digest. Decomposed hardwood from species like oak, maple, and birch provides essential nutrients and fiber. Avoid softwoods like pine or cedar, which contain oils and compounds that can be toxic to invertebrates. Leaf litter from deciduous trees, particularly oak leaves, should be added to the substrate and replenished as it is consumed. The appearance of small, spherical frass pellets indicates that your millipedes are actively feeding on the substrate.

Supplemental foods should be offered regularly to ensure complete nutrition. Fresh vegetables such as cucumber, zucchini, carrots, romaine lettuce, and sweet potato are readily accepted. Fruits including apple, banana, and melon can be offered occasionally but should be used sparingly due to their sugar content. Remove any uneaten fresh food within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth, which can be harmful to your millipedes.

Calcium supplementation is crucial for millipede health, as calcium is essential for building and maintaining a healthy exoskeleton, particularly during and after molting. Provide calcium by offering cuttlebone pieces, crushed eggshells, or commercial calcium supplements designed for reptiles or invertebrates. Some keepers sprinkle calcium powder directly onto fresh foods or add it to the substrate surface. Signs of calcium deficiency include difficulty molting and soft or malformed exoskeletons.

Protein sources can be offered occasionally in the form of fish flakes, dried shrimp, or high-quality dog or cat food kibble. While not strictly necessary, these supplements can benefit breeding females and growing juveniles. Fresh food offerings once or twice weekly, combined with a nutritious substrate and available calcium, will meet all the dietary needs of your Ivory Millipedes.

Ivory Millipedes are remarkably hardy invertebrates that rarely experience health issues when provided with appropriate husbandry. Their robust constitution is one of the primary reasons they are so highly recommended for beginners. Most health problems in captive millipedes can be traced back to environmental issues, particularly problems with humidity, substrate quality, or exposure to harmful chemicals. Understanding proper care requirements and recognizing early warning signs allows keepers to maintain healthy specimens for many years.

With proper husbandry, Ivory Millipedes are among the hardiest invertebrates in the hobby. Their forgiving nature and clear care requirements make health issues uncommon for attentive keepers. Regular observation during routine maintenance allows early detection of any potential problems, and maintaining stable environmental conditions prevents the vast majority of health concerns.

Ivory Millipedes are among the most handleable invertebrate species available, making them popular choices for keepers who enjoy occasional interaction with their animals. Their calm demeanor, slow movement, and relative hardiness compared to more delicate species allow for safe handling sessions when conducted properly.

When handling an Ivory Millipede, approach slowly and allow the animal to become aware of your presence before attempting to pick it up. Gently scoop underneath the millipede, supporting its body along its length rather than pinching or grasping. Allow the millipede to walk onto your hand of its own accord when possible. Their many legs provide excellent grip, and they will typically move slowly and deliberately across your skin.

Handling sessions should be kept brief, typically no longer than 10-15 minutes, to minimize stress on the animal. Always handle millipedes over a soft surface such as a bed or couch to prevent injury from accidental falls. While these millipedes are more resilient than many arthropods, falls onto hard surfaces can still cause damage to their exoskeleton.

Be aware that millipedes may secrete defensive fluids when stressed. This brown liquid can stain skin and clothing and may cause mild irritation, particularly if it contacts eyes or sensitive skin. Always wash hands thoroughly after handling, both to remove any secretions and to protect the millipede from oils, lotions, or other substances on your skin during future handling sessions.

Despite their handleability, it is important to remember that invertebrates do not benefit from handling the way mammals might enjoy social interaction. Handling is primarily for the keeper's enjoyment and should be balanced against the animal's need for a stress-free environment. Many keepers find equal satisfaction in observing their millipedes' natural behaviors without direct handling.

Non-powdered latex or nitrile gloves can be used when handling if you wish to avoid direct skin contact or protect the millipede from substances on your hands. A soft paintbrush or plastic spoon can also be used to gently guide millipedes during enclosure maintenance without direct handling.

The Ivory Millipede stands as perhaps the most highly recommended millipede species for keepers of all experience levels. Their combination of attractive appearance, hardy constitution, docile temperament, and straightforward care requirements creates an almost ideal first invertebrate for those new to the hobby. Experienced keepers equally appreciate them for their reliability and the ease with which they can be bred.

For beginners, Ivory Millipedes provide an excellent introduction to the fundamentals of invertebrate husbandry without the risk of failure that might accompany more demanding species. The skills learned while keeping these millipedes, including substrate preparation, humidity management, and nutritional supplementation, transfer directly to care of other millipede species and many other invertebrates.

Families with children may find Ivory Millipedes to be engaging educational pets that can help teach responsibility and foster appreciation for invertebrate life. Their handleability allows supervised interaction, while their relatively long lifespan of 5-10 years provides opportunity for long-term observation and care. However, adult supervision is always recommended during handling, and children should be taught proper techniques to prevent injury to the animal.

These millipedes are excellent candidates for bioactive terrariums and naturalistic displays. Their detritivore feeding habits mean they actively contribute to decomposition processes within the enclosure, and they coexist peacefully with other commonly kept invertebrates such as isopods and springtails. Their surface-active nature provides more viewing opportunities than many burrowing species.

Potential keepers should consider that while Ivory Millipedes are long-lived, their care does require ongoing commitment to maintaining proper environmental conditions. The substrate will need regular replenishment and occasional complete changes. Those seeking a completely hands-off pet may find even these minimal requirements more involved than expected.

For anyone considering their first millipede or looking for a reliable species to add to an existing collection, the Ivory Millipede earns its reputation as the hobby's best beginner species through consistent hardiness, attractive appearance, and genuinely pleasant temperament.