Vietnamese Giant Centipede
Species Description

Scolopendra dehaani, commonly known as the Vietnamese Giant Centipede, carries several regional names including the Giant Asian Centipede, Thai Giant Centipede, and Giant Vietnamese Centipede, reflecting its broad distribution across mainland Southeast Asia. The species was originally described by Brandt in 1840, though it underwent taxonomic revision over the years, being reclassified by Carl Attems in 1930 as a subspecies of Scolopendra subspinipes before being restored to full species status in a 2012 taxonomic paper based on morphological analysis.

The common name "Vietnamese Giant Centipede" has become standard in the exotic pet trade, though specimens in commerce may originate from Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, or other regions within the species' range. Geographic variants show subtle differences in coloration and size, with some populations displaying more vibrant orange coloration while others lean toward rustier or more subdued tones, though all share the characteristic dark body with contrasting bright leg coloration.

The scientific name honors the naturalist who first collected and described specimens, though the etymology of "dehaani" is not widely documented in modern literature. The species can be distinguished from the closely related S. subspinipes and other large Asian Scolopendra species by the absence of spines on the underside of the legs—a diagnostic feature that requires close examination and is certainly not recommended for identification of living specimens given the species' dangerous nature.

In its native range, S. dehaani may be known by various local names in different languages and cultures, often translating roughly to variations of "giant centipede" or "hundred-legged creature," sometimes with additional descriptors emphasizing the animal's dangerous or fearsome nature. These regional names reflect the healthy respect local populations maintain for this formidable predator.

The Vietnamese Giant Centipede is a massive, impressive arthropod that commands immediate attention through sheer size and striking coloration. Adult specimens typically reach 8 to 10 inches in length, with exceptional individuals documented at 25-30 centimeters (roughly 10-12 inches), making S. dehaani among the largest centipede species globally and certainly one of the largest in the genus Scolopendra. Their substantial girth and muscular build add to their imposing presence, creating an animal that appears powerful and dangerous even when motionless.

The body displays dramatic coloration that serves as honest aposematic warning to potential predators. The tergites (dorsal plates covering each segment) are typically deep brown, chocolate brown, or nearly black, sometimes with subtle reddish or purplish tones visible under proper lighting. This dark coloration creates stark contrast with the legs, which range from bright orange to rusty orange or yellow-orange depending on the individual and population. Recent research has identified at least five distinct color morphs within the species, including four dichromatic patterns and one monochromatic pattern, all generally falling within the reddish, brown, or orange color spectrum.

The head is typically orange to reddish-brown, matching or slightly lighter than the leg coloration, and houses the sensory antennae that the centipede uses to navigate its environment. The antennae are constantly in motion when the animal is active, sweeping and probing for chemical and tactile information about surroundings and potential prey. The first pair of body appendages are modified into massive, powerful forcipules (venomous pincers) connected to potent venom glands, capable of subduing prey much larger than the centipede itself.

The body consists of numerous segments, each bearing a pair of legs, with the final pair often held extended behind the body and used primarily for sensory purposes rather than locomotion. These posterior legs are notably robust in S. dehaani and may be used in defensive displays. The legs themselves are heavily muscled and equipped with sharp claws that provide excellent traction on various surfaces, contributing to the species' impressive climbing ability and speed. The overall build is robust and muscular, reflecting the centipede's role as an apex invertebrate predator in its ecosystem.

The Vietnamese Giant Centipede has earned a formidable reputation among invertebrate keepers worldwide as one of the most aggressive and defensive centipede species commonly available in the hobby. Unlike some species that may attempt to flee when threatened or only bite as a last resort, S. dehaani consistently displays immediate defensive aggression when disturbed, making them one of the most challenging and dangerous invertebrates to maintain in captivity. This is not a species that "calms down" with time or "gets used to" keeper presence—they remain intensely defensive throughout their lives.

Their threat display is unmistakable and intimidating. When disturbed, S. dehaani raises the anterior portion of its body, spreads its forcipules wide, and may rear up significantly while facing the threat. This posture is not bluffing—they will strike with explosive speed and accuracy if the threat persists or approaches. Their strike is not a simple defensive snap but often a sustained attack where they may grasp with the forcipules and attempt to envenomate repeatedly, demonstrating a level of aggressive persistence that exceeds most other centipede species.

Speed is perhaps the most underestimated aspect of S. dehaani behavior. Even experienced centipede keepers with years of handling various Scolopendra species report being startled by the lightning-fast movement of dehaani when agitated or hunting. They can transition from motionless to full-speed dash in an instant, covering surprising distances before the human eye can fully process the movement. This speed, combined with their size and aggressive nature, makes any enclosure breach or maintenance error potentially very dangerous.

Hunting behavior showcases their predatory prowess. S. dehaani are active hunters rather than purely ambush predators, patrolling their territory during nighttime hours in search of prey. When they detect potential food through their chemical and tactile senses, they approach rapidly and strike with their forcipules, injecting venom that quickly subdues the prey. Their venom is powerful enough to tackle prey larger than themselves, and they show no hesitation in attacking formidable opponents including other large centipedes, scorpions, or even small vertebrates.

Social behavior is non-existent beyond brief mating encounters. S. dehaani are solitary, territorial animals that will fight conspecifics to the death if forced into proximity. They show no tolerance for others of their species and must be housed individually to prevent fatal combat. Even mating in the wild is brief and potentially dangerous, with males needing to avoid being attacked and consumed by the larger, more aggressive females.

Interestingly, despite their fierce reputation, S. dehaani spend the majority of their time hidden and inactive, emerging primarily during nighttime hours or when hunting. In captivity, keepers may go days without seeing their centipede if it remains burrowed or hidden, though this reclusive behavior should not be mistaken for docility—they can transition from hidden and inactive to aggressive and mobile in seconds when circumstances demand.

Housing Scolopendra dehaani requires meticulous attention to security, environmental parameters, and safety protocols. A 10-gallon glass terrarium or heavy-duty plastic enclosure represents the minimum appropriate size for adults, though 20 gallons or larger is preferable for providing adequate space and easier environmental management. The enclosure must prioritize floor space over height, as these are primarily terrestrial and fossorial animals, with dimensions of at least twice the centipede's body length in both horizontal directions.

Escape prevention is absolutely critical and cannot be overemphasized. S. dehaani is capable of squeezing through remarkably small openings, can climb smooth surfaces when motivated, and possesses the strength to potentially push open poorly secured lids. All ventilation must be covered with fine mesh that cannot be breached, and lids must fit perfectly with no gaps whatsoever and should be weighted or locked. Many experienced keepers prefer plastic storage containers with drilled ventilation holes over traditional terrariums, as properly designed containers offer superior security while maintaining necessary air exchange.

Substrate depth is essential for this species' psychological and physical well-being. Provide 4-6 inches of appropriate substrate such as coconut fiber, peat-free topsoil, or ReptiChip (coconut husk fiber), which offers excellent moisture retention without becoming waterlogged. The substrate should maintain a moisture gradient with one corner kept quite moist through regular misting and proximity to the water dish, while the opposite corner remains drier. This allows the centipede to self-regulate its moisture exposure while preventing the constant wetness that leads to fatal fungal infections.

Ventilation deserves special attention in S. dehaani husbandry. While they require high humidity of 75-85%, they also absolutely need good air circulation to prevent the stagnant, overly moist conditions that cause fungal and bacterial infections—conditions that are often fatal. Plastic containers should have multiple ventilation panels screened with fine mesh, positioned to create cross-ventilation without creating excessive air currents that dry the enclosure. Finding the balance between humidity retention and air exchange is crucial and may require experimentation.

Temperature management should maintain a stable range of 75-84°F (24-29°C), ideally with a slight gradient allowing the centipede to thermoregulate. Room temperature often suffices in many homes, but if supplemental heating is necessary, use under-tank heaters on one side of the enclosure rather than overhead heat sources that dry conditions too rapidly. Monitor temperature at substrate level where the centipede actually lives using reliable digital thermometers.

Décor should be minimal but functional. Provide cork bark flats, hollow cork tubes, or similar hides that allow the centipede to feel secure while giving you occasional viewing opportunities. Live plants are not recommended due to the difficulty of maintaining them under appropriate conditions and the risk of pesticides. Artificial plants may be used for visual appeal if desired. The emphasis should be on creating a functional environment that meets the centipede's needs rather than an aesthetically elaborate display.

A shallow, heavy water dish must always be available, positioned in the moister corner of the enclosure. The dish should be shallow enough that the centipede cannot drown and heavy or anchored so it cannot be tipped over. Clean and refill with dechlorinated water regularly. The centipede will drink from the dish and may also use the area around it to access higher localized humidity.

Maintenance procedures must be conducted with extreme caution using long-handled tools. Never reach into an enclosure with bare hands, never perform maintenance without knowing exactly where the centipede is located, and always have an escape plan if the centipede makes an unexpected move. Many keepers prefer to transfer the centipede to a secure container using paintbrushes or long tongs before performing any enclosure work, minimizing the risk of escape or bite during vulnerable maintenance activities.

Feeding Scolopendra dehaani is straightforward from a nutritional standpoint, as they are voracious predators with powerful feeding drives and few dietary restrictions. However, the feeding process requires careful safety protocols due to the centipede's aggressive nature and incredible strike speed. In the wild, S. dehaani preys upon a diverse array of arthropods and small vertebrates, using their potent venom to quickly subdue prey that may be as large or larger than themselves.

In captivity, the staple diet consists of appropriately-sized feeder insects including crickets, locusts, Dubia roaches, discoid roaches, red runner roaches, superworms, and large mealworms. Adult centipedes can easily handle adult crickets and large roaches, while juveniles should be offered prey proportional to their size—generally nothing wider than half the centipede's body width. Most keepers prefer roaches over crickets as roaches are less likely to nibble on an inactive or molting centipede and provide better nutrition with less odor and noise.

Larger adult S. dehaani can be offered vertebrate prey including appropriately-sized mice (typically pinkie or fuzzy mice), though this should be considered occasional supplementation rather than a dietary staple. Some keepers avoid vertebrate prey entirely due to the messy nature of feeding and ethical considerations. If vertebrate prey is offered, it should always be pre-killed to prevent defensive injuries to the centipede from a desperate prey animal, though the centipede's venom is certainly capable of subduing live prey.

Feeding frequency depends on the centipede's size and metabolism. Juveniles in active growth phases may be fed every 4-5 days to support rapid development, while adults typically require feeding only once every 7-10 days, or even less frequently. S. dehaani have slow metabolisms and can survive extended periods without food—adults may refuse food for weeks before molting, which is completely normal. Attempting to force-feed or offering excessive food during pre-molt periods can cause stress and health complications.

The feeding process itself requires caution and proper technique. Use long feeding tongs or forceps to place prey in the enclosure, positioning it near the centipede's current location if possible to encourage quick acceptance and minimize the time live prey remains in the enclosure. Never hand-feed or attempt to "present" food directly to the centipede's forcipules, as their strike is incredibly fast and could result in the tongs being grabbed and jerked toward you, potentially causing you to make contact. Drop the prey and withdraw immediately.

Critically important is the removal of uneaten prey items. Any live prey that has not been consumed within 24 hours must be removed from the enclosure using long tongs, as hungry crickets or roaches will attack molting or inactive centipedes, potentially causing fatal injuries. This is particularly crucial during the pre-molt period when the centipede is vulnerable. Some keepers prefer to starve feeder insects for 24 hours before offering them to reduce the risk of the prey animal attacking the centipede.

Observing feeding behavior provides valuable information about the centipede's health and status. A healthy S. dehaani typically strikes prey aggressively with explosive speed, quickly subduing it with venom before consuming. Reluctance to feed, sluggish strikes, or complete food refusal may indicate approaching molt, environmental stress, or health issues requiring attention.

Vietnamese Giant Centipedes are generally robust animals when provided with appropriate environmental conditions, but like all arthropods, they are susceptible to health issues primarily stemming from husbandry errors rather than infectious diseases. Their chitinous exoskeleton provides excellent physical protection, but this same armor makes internal health problems nearly impossible to detect until they become severe. Prevention through meticulous husbandry is vastly preferable to attempting treatment, as veterinary care for centipedes is extremely limited and most medications used for vertebrates are toxic to arthropods.

If health issues do arise despite preventive care, options for intervention are limited. Mild dehydration can sometimes be reversed through immediate environmental correction, and minor mite infestations may be managed through substrate replacement and environmental modification. However, fungal infections, severe molting complications, and chemical exposures are typically fatal regardless of intervention attempts. The best approach remains prevention through excellent, consistent husbandry practices.

The Vietnamese Giant Centipede represents perhaps the clearest example in invertebrate keeping of a species that should absolutely never be handled under any circumstances. This is not hyperbole or excessive caution—S. dehaani possesses extremely potent venom, exhibits consistent aggressive defensive behavior, and displays speed that makes even planned, careful interactions extremely dangerous. Many long-time invertebrate keepers with decades of experience handling various venomous species report that S. dehaani commands their utmost caution and respect.

The venom of S. dehaani is among the most potent of all centipede species and contains cytolytic proteins that cause cellular damage. Envenomation typically results in immediate, severe, excruciating pain at the bite site, rapidly followed by extensive swelling that can affect the entire limb. The pain is consistently described as far worse than bee stings, comparable to or exceeding large wasp or hornet stings, and can persist for hours or even days. Swelling can be so extensive that it impairs movement and circulation, occasionally requiring medical intervention.

Beyond local effects, systemic symptoms may include nausea, dizziness, headache, elevated heart rate, sweating, and in severe cases more serious complications. While fatalities from centipede bites are extremely rare, there are documented cases of severe allergic reactions, and the theoretical possibility of life-threatening reaction exists, particularly in individuals with insect allergies or compromised health. Some professionals who work extensively with S. dehaani maintain readily accessible epinephrine auto-injectors as a precautionary measure.

All enclosure maintenance and rehousing operations must be performed using appropriate tools and careful protocols. Long feeding tongs (12+ inches), soft paintbrushes, clear plastic transfer containers, and additional backup containment vessels should be standard equipment. When performing maintenance, first locate the centipede visually, plan your approach, and prepare all equipment before beginning. Many keepers prefer to gently coax the centipede into a secure transfer container using a paintbrush, seal the container, and then perform enclosure maintenance with the centipede safely contained.

The explosive speed of S. dehaani cannot be overemphasized. They can traverse the length of their enclosure in what seems like a fraction of a second when motivated, making escape during maintenance a very real possibility if proper protocols are not followed. Always work over a contained area such as a bathtub or large plastic bin where an escaped centipede can be more easily located and recaptured. Never perform maintenance while distracted, tired, or rushed—the moment your attention wavers is when accidents occur.

If a bite does occur, immediate first aid consists of thoroughly cleaning the wound with soap and water, applying ice to reduce swelling and pain, and taking over-the-counter pain medication as needed. The affected limb should be kept still and elevated if possible. Monitor carefully for signs of severe allergic reaction including difficulty breathing, extensive swelling beyond the immediate area, extreme pain, or systemic symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if severe symptoms develop, and if possible provide medical professionals with photos or identification information about the centipede species to assist in treatment decisions.

Prospective keepers must honestly assess whether they can commit to a lifetime of never handling this animal, always maintaining extreme caution during any interaction, and accepting that even with perfect protocols, some risk always exists. If you are uncomfortable with these terms, this is not an appropriate species for your collection.

The Vietnamese Giant Centipede is emphatically not a species for beginners to invertebrate keeping, nor is it appropriate for casual interest in exotic pets or impulse acquisitions. This species demands significant prior experience with aggressive invertebrates, proven track record of safe handling protocols with defensive species, complete understanding of the serious risks involved, and genuine passion for observing rather than interacting with the animal. Even among experienced invertebrate keepers, S. dehaani is considered an advanced species requiring elevated caution.

Prospective keepers should have substantial experience with other large centipedes or similarly defensive invertebrates before considering S. dehaani. This species is not one to "learn on"—the consequences of mistakes or inadequate preparation are too severe. Many experienced keepers recommend starting with more forgiving species like Scolopendra polymorpha or even S. heros before attempting S. dehaani, as the Vietnamese species' combination of size, speed, aggression, and venom potency represents a significant step up in danger even from other "hot" invertebrates.

This species excels as a display animal for those who appreciate raw predatory power and the aesthetic beauty of a perfectly evolved predator. Watching a healthy S. dehaani patrol its territory, strike prey with devastating speed, or simply rest in all its impressive glory can be deeply rewarding for keepers who understand and accept that this is a strictly hands-off relationship. These are animals to observe and admire from outside secure enclosures, not to interact with physically.

Households with children require extremely careful consideration. Even the most secure enclosure represents some risk, and children's natural curiosity combined with potential impulsive actions creates dangerous scenarios. At minimum, the enclosure must be in a room that can be secured when not supervised, and all children in the household must receive age-appropriate education about the serious dangers the animal represents. Similarly, homes with pets that might knock over or open enclosures need additional security measures.

Legal status varies significantly by jurisdiction. Some locations prohibit ownership of medically significant venomous invertebrates entirely, others require permits or registration, and some have no regulations at all. Always research and comply with local, state, and federal regulations before acquiring this species. Additionally, rental agreements, homeowner association rules, or building codes may restrict keeping dangerous animals, even if they are legal in your jurisdiction.

The long-term commitment should not be underestimated. With lifespans of 5-6 years, S. dehaani requires consistent care, secure housing, and regular feeding throughout its life. They cannot be easily rehomed if circumstances change—many exotic pet stores refuse to accept large centipedes, and finding qualified adopters can be extremely difficult. Responsible ownership means planning for the animal's welfare during vacations, potential moves, or other life changes that might affect your ability to provide appropriate care.

For those willing to meet these substantial demands, accept the limitations and risks, and commit to the species' long-term welfare, the Vietnamese Giant Centipede offers an unparalleled window into the world of apex invertebrate predators. They represent some of the most impressive, powerful, and fascinating arthropods available in the exotic pet trade, commanding respect and delivering engagement for keepers who appreciate them on their own terms.