Bug Identifier
Stone centipede
Community identification

Stone centipede

Lithobius forficatus

Order & Family
Order Lithobiomorpha, Family Lithobiidae
Size
18mm to 30mm (approx. 0.7 to 1.2 inches) in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in moist environments such as leaf litter, under rocks, logs, and in soil; often found around gardens and houses.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator feeding on small invertebrates like worms, spiders, woodlice, and small insects; hunts by injecting venom using forcipules (modified front legs).

Behavior Patterns

Mainly nocturnal; they are fast runners and lack the long legs of house centipedes. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis and can live for several years.

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial to gardens by controlling pests; they are shy and hide during the day. While they can bite if handled, it is rarely serious for humans, typically causing localized swelling similar to a bee sting.