Bug Identifier
Rusty Millipede
Community identification

Rusty Millipede

Trigoniulus corallinus

Order & Family
Order: Spirobolida, Family: Pachybolidae
Size
20 mm to 50 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Damp environments such as leaf litter, mulch, under rocks, and rotting logs. They often enter homes during heavy rains or dry spells seeking moisture.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivorous; they feed on decaying organic matter, leaf litter, and occasionally fungi or tender plant roots.

Behavior Patterns

Primarily nocturnal and slow-moving. When threatened, they often curl into a tight spiral to protect their soft underside and may secrete defensive chemicals.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. They are beneficial decomposers that help recycle nutrients into the soil; however, they can be considered a nuisance when they enter buildings in large numbers.