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Pacific giant centipede

Pacific giant centipede

Scolopendra subspinipes

A species of Centipede, Also known as Vietnamese centipede, Orange-legged centipede, Giant tropical centipede

The pacific giant centipede (Scolopendra subspinipes) is often kept as a pet due to its beautiful appearance. It has a reddish-brown body, which is longer than most human hands. However, they shouldn't be handled because they can deliver a painful bite, which could cause serious swelling. Deaths from these bites are rare though.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Bite Humans
Bite Humans
Bite Animals
Bite Animals
General Info About Pacific giant centipede
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Attributes of Pacific giant centipede
Habitat
dark, damp area (under rock; log; in crevice)
Adult Food Sources
Insects, lizards, frogs, small birds, small mammals
Larva Food Source
Small insects, larvae, termites, soft-bodied invertebrates, small spiders
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
The Pacific giant centipede has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Venomous
The Pacific giant centipede can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
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Species Status of Pacific giant centipede
It can be found in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the Old World. It is found in Hawaii.
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Adult Size of Pacific giant centipede
20 cm
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Predators of Pacific giant centipede Larvae
Birds, rodents, larger arthropods, reptiles
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Predators of Adult Pacific giant centipede
Larger carnivorous mammals, birds of prey, large arthropods, reptiles
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Interesting Facts About Pacific giant centipede
Some pacific giant centipede species exhibit maternal care, tending to their offspring by grooming and protecting them from predators until they can survive independently.
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Scientific Classification of Pacific giant centipede
Tips for Finding Pacific giant centipede
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Youth Habitat of Pacific giant centipede
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Caves and Subterranean Areas, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Pacific giant centipede
Forests and Woodlands, Tropical Rainforests, Caves and Subterranean Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Pacific giant centipede
Humid and warm conditions, preferably after a rain, since pacific giant centipede thrives in moist environments and tends to hide during dry and hot weather.
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How and Where Can You Find Pacific giant centipede at Different Life Stages
Juvenile Juvenile pacific giant centipede are smaller and may not be as brightly colored as adults. They can often be found under logs, stones, or within leaf litter. Search for juveniles by carefully lifting and inspecting potential hiding spots in the evening.
Adult Adult pacific giant centipede may be located in similar environments to the juveniles, such as under rocks or inside rotting wood. They may also inhabit crevices of rocks and walls. Finding adults should also be done at night, using a flashlight, and with caution due to their potential defensive behavior.
Are Pacific giant centipede harmful?
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The pacific giant centipede can cause toxic reactions with a wide range of severity. However, the toxins are typically targeted at their prey and predators. They are usually not fatal to humans.

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Are Pacific giant centipede harmful to humans?

Pacific giant centipede usually live in hidden places in forests or cities, and generally do not actively attack people. However, when it is disturbed, it is likely to bite, and severe pain and swelling will occur after being bitten by it.
Harmful Effects of Pacific giant centipede
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Toxic to Humans

Pacific giant centipede possesses venomous fangs (forcipules) that can deliver neurotoxins and cytotoxins upon biting. The venom can cause pain, swelling, and, in extreme cases, muscle damage and necrosis. Although generally not lethal, the bite impacts can range from mild discomfort to severe complications. Immediate medical attention is advised for severe reactions.

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Toxic to Animals

The organism pacific giant centipede possesses a toxin that can range from mild to severe in intensity. It delivers its venom through a sting, which is utilized for both defense and prey capture. Juveniles, as well as adults, are capable of stinging. When humans or domestic animals such as dogs and cats are stung, they may experience intense pain, swelling, and in some cases, severe reactions that require medical attention. Smaller animals, like birds or other small mammals, could face more serious consequences upon being stung. Even reptiles and arthropods are not immune to the effects of pacific giant centipede's sting, which can vary depending on the victim's size and sensitivity to the toxin.

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Bite Humans

Pacific giant centipede bites humans typically in self-defense or if provoked. These centipedes use their forcipules, specialized appendages, to inject venom into their perceived threats, causing immediate pain, inflammation, and in rare cases, severe reactions. While often accidental, such interactions are a direct consequence of disturbances to their habitat.

More Effects of Pacific giant centipede

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