Bug Identifier
Greenhouse Millipede
Community identification

Greenhouse Millipede

Oxidus gracilis

Order & Family
Order Polydesmida, Family Paradoxosomatidae
Size
18 to 23 mm (0.7 to 0.9 inches) in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp environments such as leaf litter, mulch, greenhouses, and gardens; often found under rocks or flower pots.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivore; feeds on decaying organic matter, rotting wood, and occasionally soft plant tissues or seedlings.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and moisture-dependent; they exhibit a 'swarming' behavior after heavy rains. They lack eyes and rely on antennae for navigation.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by decomposing organic matter. They are harmless to humans, though they can release a foul-smelling liquid (hydrogen cyanide) to deter predators, which can irritate skin or eyes if handled.