Centipedes
Scolopendra spp.
- Centipedes are arthropods that have a set of legs per body segment.
- The number of legs a centipede has greatly differs depending on the subspecies.
- Some centipedes have over 300 legs.
- They are mostly nocturnal.
- They are usually carnivorous.
Legs
Centipedes of a lot of legs! Some subspecies have around 30 legs, while others have around 300. Centipedes always have an odd number of pairs of legs.
Adaptations
Centipedes have low, slender bodies with many legs, making them ideal of crawling into all sorts of crevices and places. They like to stay in dark, moist places, as they lose moisture quickly, and are nocturnal. Their venom helps them catch prey.
Threat Level
- Unknown
- Common
- Near Threatened
- Threatened
- Endangered
- Critically Endangered
- Extinct in the Wild
We care about centipedes
The Saint Louis Zoo supports centipedes in the Bayer Insectarium at the Zoo. Learn more about how we are helping wildlife around the world.
Find this animal in Discovery Corner
SAINT LOUIS ZOO ZONE
Discovery Corner
Whether you are looking for an animal to meet up-close, or prefer those safely housed behind glass, you'll find it at Discovery Corner. Follow a butterfly's wandering flight.