Florida ivory millipede

Geographical Origin and Habitat: This millipede species is native to the southeastern United States, primarily the state of Florida, but is also found in Georgia and Alabama. It inhabits moist hardwood forests, sandy pine flatwoods, and subtropical woodland areas. It spends most of its time in the leaf litter, hiding under decaying logs, piles of decomposing leaves, and in the organic-rich topsoil.

Taxonomy and Genetics: Chicobolus spinigerus belongs to the class Diplopoda, order Spirobolida, and family Spirobolidae. No distinct subspecies are recognized, but the species shows genetic stability typical of populations widespread in the Gulf Coast region. It is one of the most popular and commercially available millipedes in the terrarium hobby due to its hardiness.

Behavior and Habits: It is a primarily nocturnal and fossorial organism, although it can be active during the day if humidity levels are high. It spends a significant amount of time burrowing through the substrate, which helps aerate the soil. When threatened, it rolls into a tight spiral to protect its soft underside and can secrete a defensive fluid containing benzoquinones, which may stain human skin and has a pungent odor, but is harmless.

Morphology: It features a robust, cylindrical body divided into numerous segments, each equipped with two pairs of legs. Adults reach a length of 8 to 12 cm. The coloration is highly distinctive, featuring alternating rings of dark brown or black and light ivory-gray, contrasted by salmon-pink or reddish legs and antennae, which makes them visually appealing.

Terrarium Setup: A plastic enclosure or glass terrarium measuring 30x30x30 cm is sufficient for a group of 3 to 5 individuals. The substrate is the most critical element: it must be at least 10-15 cm deep (matching the length of the millipede) and consist of a mix of organic soil, coconut fiber, crushed decaying oak or beech leaves, and finely shredded rotten wood. The top layer should be covered with whole dry leaves and pieces of bark.

Lighting and Heating: They do not require any special lighting or UVB, as they are photophobic and live mainly underground; ambient room light is sufficient. Ideal temperatures range from 21°C to 26°C. If temperatures drop below 18°C for extended periods, a small thermostat-controlled heat mat should be placed on one side of the terrarium (never underneath, to prevent overheating the substrate where they burrow to cool down).

Humidity and Hydration: Humidity must be kept consistently medium-high, around 70-80%. The substrate should be moist but not waterlogged (similar to a wrung-out sponge). Lightly misting the terrarium 2-3 times a week with dechlorinated water is sufficient. For hydration, do not use water dishes as they can drown; they absorb water from the damp substrate and food.

Feeding and Supplementation: The substrate itself (rotten wood and decomposing leaves) makes up 80% of their diet. This must be supplemented regularly with fresh fruits and vegetables (such as zucchini, cucumber, carrots, squash, apples, bananas), which should be removed before they mold. Providing a constant source of calcium, such as cuttlebone powder mixed into the substrate, is essential for exoskeleton growth and molting.

Compatibility: They are extremely peaceful and gregarious animals that can be kept in large groups without any conflict. They are excellent for bioactive terrariums with live plants and can be housed with springtails and non-aggressive isopods, which help control mold. They should never be housed with predators like spiders, scorpions, or insectivorous reptiles.

Health and Common Diseases: The main threat is molting failure, usually caused by insufficient humidity or calcium. During a molt, the millipede burrows and must not be disturbed under any circumstances, as the new exoskeleton is soft and highly vulnerable. Other risks include mite infestations (some symbiotic mites are normal, but an explosion indicates poor hygiene) and fungal infections due to stagnant air and soggy substrate.