Florida Ivory Millipede

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Common in the southeastern United States, primarily Florida and Georgia. Inhabits pine forests, hardwood hammocks, and sandy grasslands under logs.

Taxonomy and Genetics: Belongs to the Spirobolidae family, genus Chicobolus. Known for its smooth, polished exoskeleton and ivory coloration.

Behavior and Habits: Diurnal and crepuscular, highly active compared to other millipedes. Likes to climb low branches. When threatened, it rolls into a spiral and releases a defensive fluid.

Morphology: Cylindrical body reaching lengths of 8.0 to 10.0 cm. Patterned with ivory-white and dark gray stripes. Males have gonopods on their seventh body segment.

Terrarium Setup: Enclosure of at least 40x30x30 cm. Substrate must be deep (at least 10 cm) composed of organic soil, decaying hardwood leaves, and crushed rotting wood.

Lighting and Heating: Keep daytime temperatures between 22°C and 26°C. UVB is not required. Use a side-mounted heat mat if needed; never place it underneath the enclosure.

Humidity and Hydration: Maintain high humidity levels of 70-85%. Mist daily to keep substrate damp but not waterlogged. Provide a constant source of calcium (cuttlebone).

Feeding and Supplementation: Detritivorous scavenger. Primarily feeds on decaying leaves and wood. Offer fresh vegetables and fruits (cucumber, squash, melon) as treats.

Compatibility: Very peaceful and social. Can be housed in groups of its own species. Compatible with peaceful isopods and other detritivores.

Health and Common Diseases: Requires calcium to construct a new exoskeleton during molting. Extremely sensitive to chemicals, insecticides, and household sprays.