Garden Millipede (Cylindrical Millipede)
Scientific Name: Julida (Order level identification)
Order & Family: Order: Julida; Family: Julidae (typically)
Size: 10mm to 50mm depending on specific species and maturity.
Natural Habitat
Damp environments such as leaf litter, under rocks, rotting wood, and occasionally indoors in cool, moist areas like basements.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivorous; they primarily eat decaying organic matter, dead leaves, and occasionally young plant roots.
Behavior Patterns
They are nocturnal and prefer moisture. When threatened or dead, they typically curl into a tight spiral to protect their soft underside. They move slowly with a wave-like motion of many legs.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and enriching soil. They are harmless to humans, though some species can secrete a mild defensive liquid that may irritate sensitive skin or eyes; they do not bite or sting.
Identified on: 2/21/2026