Millipedes? Centipedes? Know the Difference and How to Prevent Them

Centipedes and millipedes are two common arthropods that often cause confusion and concern for homeowners. While both have multiple legs and a segmented appearance, they are quite different in their biology, behavior, and impact on your home. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between centipedes and millipedes, and provide effective strategies for avoiding infestations of both. By understanding these fascinating creatures, you can better protect your home and maintain a pest-free environment by implementing centipede and millipede control.

Understanding Centipedes

Physical Characteristics:

Centipedes belong to the class Chilopoda. They have elongated, flattened bodies with one pair of legs per body segment. The number of legs can vary significantly depending on the species, but it typically ranges from 15 to 177 pairs. Centipedes are often brown, reddish-orange, or yellow, and have long antennae. They are equipped with venomous claws called forcipules, which they use to subdue their prey.

Behavior and Habitat:

Centipedes are nocturnal predators that feed on insects, spiders, and other small arthropods. They prefer moist, dark environments and are commonly found in basements, bathrooms, and other areas with high humidity. Outdoors, they live under rocks, logs, and leaf litter.

Impact on Your Home:

While centipedes can be beneficial by controlling other pest populations, their presence indoors can be unsettling. Although bites are rare and typically not dangerous, they can be painful.

Understanding Millipedes

Physical Characteristics:

Millipedes belong to the class Diplopoda. They have cylindrical or slightly flattened bodies with two pairs of legs per body segment, giving them a more “crowded” appearance compared to centipedes. The number of legs can vary from dozens to hundreds, depending on the species. Millipedes are usually brown or black and have short antennae.

Behavior and Habitat:

Millipedes are detritivores, meaning they feed on decaying organic matter such as leaves and wood. They are also nocturnal and/ like centipedes prefer moist environments. You can find them in gardens, under rocks, and in leaf litter. Indoors, they are often found in basements, crawl spaces, and other damp areas.

Impact on Your Home:

Millipedes are generally harmless to humans and do not bite. However, they can become a nuisance when they invade homes in large numbers, particularly during periods of heavy rain or drought when they seek shelter. 

Similarities Between Centipedes and Millipedes

Multiple Legs: Both centipedes and millipedes have numerous legs, which is a common characteristic that often leads to confusion between the two.

Segmented Bodies: Both arthropods have segmented bodies, although the number of legs per segment and body shape differ.

Moisture Preference: Both prefer damp, dark environments and are commonly found in similar habitats.

Nocturnal Habits: Both are primarily active at night.

Differences Between Centipedes and Millipedes

Body Shape and Leg Arrangement:

Centipedes: Flattened bodies with one pair of legs per segment.

Millipedes: Cylindrical bodies with two pairs of legs per segment.

Diet:

Centipedes: Predatory, feeding on insects and other small arthropods.

Millipedes: Detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter.

Behavior:

Centipedes: Fast-moving and capable of biting with venomous claws.

Millipedes: Slow-moving and do not bite; some can release a foul-smelling fluid as a defense mechanism.

Antennae:

Centipedes: Long, prominent antennae.

Millipedes: Shorter, less noticeable antennae.

What You Can Do to Implement Centipede and Millipede Control

Reduce Moisture:

Use dehumidifiers in damp areas such as basements and bathrooms.

Fix any plumbing leaks and ensure proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms.

Clean gutters regularly to prevent water buildup around your home’s foundation.

Seal Entry Points:

Inspect and seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation.

Use weatherstripping and door sweeps to close gaps under doors.

Remove Debris:

Keep your yard free of leaf litter, grass clippings, and wood piles.

Indoors, regularly clean areas where centipedes and millipedes are likely to hide, such as basements and closets.

Proper Drainage:

Ensure that water drains away from your home’s foundation.

Consider installing downspout extensions to direct water away from the house.

Professional Pest Control Services:

For persistent or severe infestations, consider enlisting the help of a professional pest control service like Green Pest Management. Our experienced exterminators can assess the situation and recommend targeted centipede and millipede control treatment options to take care of the problem.

Centipedes and millipedes, while often confused due to their numerous legs and segmented bodies, are distinct in their behavior, diet, and impact on your home. By understanding the differences and similarities between these arthropods, you can better manage and prevent infestations. Implementing proactive measures and seeking professional help when necessary can keep your home free from these multi-legged intruders. If you’re dealing with centipede or millipede infestations, or other pest problems, don’t hesitate to contact Green Pest Management for expert assistance. Our comprehensive pest control services will help you reclaim your space from these unwelcome guests.

 

Sources

University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) – Centipedes and Millipedes

Penn State Extension – Centipedes and Millipedes

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Pest Control and Pesticide Safety