What is the name of the centipede. Skolopendra: photo of an insect, what is dangerous

The long body, the edges of which are strewn with legs, is a centipede insect, as is commonly believed, although from a biological point of view this is not true. They are a separate superclass of arthropods. Its representatives can be seen almost all over the world, with the exception of regions with permafrost. Centipedes are not uncommon in the middle lane and even in human dwellings.

Description of centipedes and their common types

In Latin, this superclass of invertebrates is called Myriapoda. It includes 4 classes of arthropods:

• lipopods;
• bipedals;
• pauropod;
• symbol.

All of them are centipedes, although each of the classes has its own distinctive features that distinguish them from other relatives.

The most famous representatives of this superclass, with whom a person also deals, are:

There are 12,000 species of centipedes in total.

Structure

The body of each centipede consists of a long torso and a rounded head. Usually, the latter is practically flat from below (babopods are an exception to this rule), so that it would be easier for the arthropod to move along surfaces. Also on the head there is a pair of antennae that perform the function of a tactile and olfactory organ. Scientifically they are called antenulls. Food is provided by 2 pairs of jaws: the upper ones are the mandibles, and the lower ones are the maxillae.

The elongated body of a centipede has the shape of an elongated cylinder and consists of many segments, each of which is provided with a pair or more legs (often 4 legs on the abdominal segments and 2 on the chest). Therefore, it is impossible to unequivocally answer the question of how many legs a centipede has. Their number can be 742 (this is the number of limbs recorded in Siphonophora millepeda from Puerto Rico), but usually much less - 10-400 pieces.

The number of legs in millipedes varies even within the same species and depends on the sex of the individual: females have more limbs.

Centipedes are almost blind, and most species can only distinguish between light and dark, while others have no eyes at all. But they have a good sense of smell and touch. The color usually varies from gray to brown. Often centipedes are decorated with dark stripes. There are tropical species of very bright colors.

How do centipedes live?

Different types of centipedes inhabit almost the entire Earth. Most often they can be found in forests of temperate and tropical latitudes. They can also live in meadows, steppes and even deserts near water sources. The exception is the regions with permafrost.

Centipedes require sufficient moisture to thrive and thrive. Unlike spiders and insects, they lack a waxy cuticle that retains water in the body. Therefore, centipedes prefer to hide on sunny days under stones, trees, construction debris and in other secluded corners.

Nutrition

All centipedes are predators by nature. Although an experiment conducted in a laboratory showed that in the absence of food for a long time, they do not disdain plant food.

Whiskers play an important role in prey hunting. They detect the presence of insects, which are the main prey of small species. Centipedes inject poison into their prey. At the same time, for example, the giant centipede is not averse to feasting on frogs and sluggish birds. Hunting usually takes place at night. But centipedes themselves often become prey. When threatened, they prefer to flee or hide.

reproduction

In temperate regions, centipedes lay their eggs in spring and summer when temperatures are warm enough. In hot countries, this process continues year-round. A pregnant female digs a small hole in moist soil, where she lays from 10 to 50 small eggs, and then masks the place, lightly sprinkling it with earth.

The duration of embryonic development in different species varies greatly. It can take from 1 to several months. Stages of growth and their time, length of life also differ. Some species live up to 6 years, which is a significant indicator.

Some females, in particular skolopendra, are caring mothers, guarding the masonry and even young offspring.

Centipedes in the house: a frightening neighborhood

Millipedes often appear in the house. They come to a person's home in search of food: cockroaches, bedbugs, fleas, moths. The need for moisture makes them settle in the underground, bathroom, on the basement floor. Centipedes can crawl out of their hiding place into other rooms to hunt.

A centipede bite is usually not dangerous. The exception is poisonous species living in regions with a warm climate. In conditions of temperate latitudes, individuals that are unable to bite through human skin live. Moreover, arthropods cannot be called aggressive creatures that attack people. On the contrary, very often when large animals, and even more so a person, appear, they rush to retreat.

But still, the inhabitants of the premises in which these creatures are wound up often begin to look for ways to get rid of the centipede at home. This is mainly due to disgust and disgust for creatures whose appearance can hardly be called attractive. Although some exotic lovers keep arthropods as pets.

What to do?

How to get rid of a house centipede that has become an uninvited guest? First of all, you need to inspect the ventilation shafts in the bathroom and toilet, as well as check the grates in the floor. These are the main routes of entry into arthropods. If necessary, you can install a mosquito net on them, and then periodically treat it with insecticides.

It is important to remember that the centipede does not live in dry rooms. Therefore, if a tap is leaking somewhere, then the malfunction must be fixed. She also needs a lot of food, and, most likely, there are many other pests in the house that need to be fought.

Insect control chemicals

There are no specific drugs for dealing with centipede. Against it, you can use universal insecticides:

• well-known "Dichlorvos";
• aerosol "Reid";
• gel against cockroaches "Great Warrior"
• "Medilis-Ziper" is a toxic, but very effective remedy.

But it is useless to use sticky traps - only a few paws will remain on them, which will be an insignificant loss for a centipede.

The only harm that the centipede brings in the house is the psychological discomfort from being next to it. To get rid of it, you need to fight other insects and high humidity; and also use special insecticides.

A centipede, met in his own apartment, often terrifies people. A rapidly running insect seems dangerous and aggressive. In fact, such assertions are justified. The centipede insect is a predator, it is really capable of attacking and biting, but not a person, but a fly or a moth. She tries to avoid contact with people, hiding in hard-to-reach corners. When threatened, the centipede can bite, and the insect's venom causes problems for people with allergies.

Centipede appearance

The common flycatcher, which we call the centipede, belongs to a large family of centipedes. It has 12,000 species. The flycatcher has a flat body divided into 15 segments. Each segment corresponds to a pair of legs. The first pair, as a result of evolution, turned into legjaws designed to capture prey. It is not difficult to calculate how many legs a centipede has - 30. The number of limbs depends on the age and type of insect, the maximum number is 354. All centipedes have an odd number of pairs of legs.

The common flycatcher is usually classified as an insect, although technically it, like all centipedes, is an arthropod.

Interesting fact. The last pair of legs significantly exceeds the length of the remaining limbs. In female flycatchers, it is twice the size of the body. From the outside, these legs look like antennae, so with a cursory glance it is difficult to determine where the insect's head is.

The size of the flycatcher is 35-60 mm, an adult, running at a speed of 40 cm / s, is able to make an unforgettable impression. Faceted eyes are located on the sides of the head. The insect has excellent vision, which helps in hunting. The long antennae of the flycatcher consist of hundreds of small segments. She has an external skeleton of chitin and sclerotin - a distinctive feature of all arthropods.

The body of the insect is grayish-yellow with three full-length dark stripes. Purple stripes are also visible on the numerous legs of the flycatcher. Knowing what a centipede looks like, you cannot confuse it with another type of centipede - centipede. This insect is much more dangerous, its bite is strong and painful swelling.

Habitat

The common flycatcher can be found in many temperate regions. In Russia, this is the Volga region, the southern regions, the insect lives in Northern Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Mediterranean countries. Under natural conditions, centipedes hide under stones, fallen leaves, plant remains. The house centipede hunts at any time of the day.

They move to human habitation with the onset of autumn cold weather. Prefer dark and damp places:

• basement;
• bathroom;
• toilet.

For the winter, the insect hibernates, showing activity only with the advent of heat. In southern countries, centipedes are treated kindly, because they help exterminate pests.

food addictions

What do centipedes eat? These are carnivorous insects, their eating habits are not limited to a certain type of prey. Predators catch:

• cockroaches;
• worms;
• larvae;
• fleas;
• butterflies.

How do flycatchers hunt?

They lie in wait for their prey using antennae-antennas that capture smells and vibrations. During the hunt, the centipede rises on long legs, then with lightning speed rushes to the noticed prey. To hold it, powerful jaw processes are used. The injected poison instantly paralyzes the insect. After eating, the flycatcher hides in a secluded place to digest food. Faced with a flycatcher, people often wonder if the centipede is poisonous. Yes, the insect has glands that produce poison to kill prey.

If several victims are within reach of the centipede, then it catches them all. At the same time, in the process of eating one midge, it holds the rest with its feet.

Centipede breeding

During the breeding season, the female begins to secrete pheromones that attract the male. The mating process of insects takes place in a peculiar way. The male lays a capsule with spermatozoa. The female picks up the spermatophore with her genital appendages. The number of fertilized eggs laid is from 60 to 130 pieces. The common flycatcher digs a hole for them in moist soil, then covers it with a sticky substance.

Centipedes are born with four pairs of legs. Their number increases after each molt. It will take at least five links until the number of legs reaches 15 pairs. Under natural conditions, insects live 3-7 years.

Centipedes in the house, why are such neighbors dangerous?

The appearance of a flycatcher in the house does not threaten its residents. The insect is more active in the dark, so the risk of encountering it will increase at night. When the light is turned on, the centipede rushes to a secluded gap. If a centipede is seen in the house in the summer, then it is better to catch it and take it outside. You need to catch it not with your hands, but with a jar or box. In tropical countries where there are no severe winters, flycatchers do not migrate in houses.

Having settled next to a person, the insect does not encroach on his food, plants and domestic animals. Centipedes do not gnaw on furniture or wallpaper, and are not carriers of dangerous diseases. There will be no invasion of a large number of flycatchers either, they do not live in families. You can get along peacefully with them, even benefiting from such a neighborhood. A small predator does an excellent job with annoying flies, and if cockroaches are hiding in the apartment, then the centipede will get to them.

Is the centipede dangerous to humans? If there is a clear threat to life, when attacked by pets or humans, she can bite and inject poison under the skin. A small dose of paralyzing toxin is not lethal to pets, and even less so to humans. It causes an unpleasant sensation, but no more than a bee sting. A tendency to be allergic to insect venom can aggravate the situation, causing swelling and general malaise.

Do centipedes bite?

Even the most non-aggressive creature can bite out of fear. A flycatcher, even attacking an adult, in most cases will not be able to bite through the skin. Children's skin is more delicate and thin, so getting a wound is real. Symptoms of a toxin entering the body will be redness, itching and burning. What to do if bitten by a centipede? The first tip is not to panic. The poison is very weak, it will not cause harm to health. It is worth acting according to the circumstances:

• disinfect the wound - with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide;
• with a strong burning sensation and the appearance of swelling - it is worth applying a cold compress, hold until the loss of discomfort;
• if the bite site hurts, take an antihistamine and an anesthetic.

Attention. Individual intolerance to flycatcher venom can lead to complications. If symptoms of an allergic reaction appear - weakness, dizziness, breathing problems and others, you should go to the hospital.

How to get rid of flycatcher

Not everyone likes the presence of an unpleasant insect in the house, which in anyone can fall from the wall right on the head. Many people are afraid of a centipede bite and its consequences. Forcing an ordinary flycatcher to leave its chosen place can change the conditions that are comfortable for it. Simple and affordable actions against centipedes:

• The flycatcher loves dampness - it is necessary to ensure a normal level of humidity. Wipe puddles on the floor in time, fix leaking taps, do not leave them on wet wipes and rags.
• Ventilation and good ventilation also reduce indoor humidity well.
• Check the basement, there is often a cluster of rotten boards, old paper, mold and dampness.
• Try to deprive the flycatcher of food, independently destroy flies, cockroaches and other prey.
• Block possible ways of entering the house - fill the cracks with mortar, put nets on the windows, repair the cracks in the wooden floor.

Attention. Sticky insect traps placed on the floor will not help get rid of the common flycatcher. She runs away from the tape, leaving several legs torn off on the surface. For a centipede, this is a small loss, because the legs grow over time.

Millipedes are arthropods, consisting of 4 classes: labiopods, bipedals, symphylls and pauropods. Scientists distinguish about 13 thousand species of centipedes.

From the name it becomes clear that these creatures have a large number of pairs of legs. For example, centipedes living in central California have 750 legs, according to this indicator, she holds the record among her fellows.

Description of centipedes

The body of a centipede consists of two parts: the head and the body. The head has a rounded shape, its lower part is flat, but the balopods are an exception. On the head is a pair of antennae and 2 pairs of jaws. The lower jaws are called maxillae and the upper jaws are called mandibles.

The body of a centipede is cylindrical, it is formed by a large number of segments. Each body segment has at least a pair of legs. Centipedes most often have 25-100 segments. The thoracic segments have a pair of legs, and the abdominal segments have 2 pairs of legs.

Centipedes have poor eyesight, and in some species the eyes are generally reduced. Millipedes, which have eyes, can only distinguish between darkness and light, that is, they are not able to truly see the world around them.

The color, as a rule, can be gray, brown and reddish. Underground and cave species of centipedes may have insufficient pigment, while in tropical species, on the contrary, the color can be very bright. Centipede sizes also fluctuate.

The first centipedes

Fossil finds indicate that centipedes existed at the end of the Silurian period, that is, these creatures lived on the planet 420 million years ago. But according to molecular studies, they appeared even earlier, perhaps 500 million years ago. Thanks to the found fossils from the Cambrian, you can see the common features of the ancient centipedes, outwardly they are similar to modern species.

Centipede habitat

Centipedes can live in a variety of environments, but they are most commonly found in forests. In addition, they live in grasslands, savannahs and deserts. They live almost everywhere, but not in the Arctic Circle.

Millipedes prefer damp environments because they do not have a waxy cuticle like arachnids and insects, so moisture is quickly lost through the skin. They can be found under leaves, in garbage heaps, under rocks, and in other places.

Centipede lifestyle

Centipedes are generalist predators, meaning they are able to feed on a variety of available food. They find prey mainly with the help of their antennae. Smaller species eat insects, but the giant Amazonian centipede is the largest among its relatives, and it can attack mice, frogs, birds, spiders, and lizards.

In apparent laboratory experiments, starving centipedes even ate plant foods.

Centipedes are predominantly nocturnal. But studies have shown that the Strigamia chinophila species prefers to be diurnal. They protect themselves from predators due to the fact that they can develop good speed.

Centipede breeding

During the mating season, male centipedes dance in front of the females, courting them, and some species of centipedes simply leave their spermatophores, the females look for them and capture them.

In temperate areas, oviposition occurs in spring and summer, while in tropical and subtropical areas, centipedes may breed throughout the season. Females lay their eggs in a dug hole, and cover them with soil from above. One clutch can contain 10-50 eggs.

The time of development of embryos in different species of centipedes is very different - this process can take from one to several months. The stages of growth are also very different.

For example, beetles take 3 years to reach sexual maturity, while Lithiobiomorph species reach reproductive maturity in a year.

Centipedes live long enough, in comparison with other insects, for example, centipedes of the species Lithobius forficatus can live 5-6 years.

The females of the Scolopendromorpha and Geophilomorpha species take care of the eggs. They do not leave the clutch and take care of the eggs for 16-60 days, licking and guarding them. And the females of some species even stay with the young for some time. If someone disturbs the clutch, the female can leave it or eat the eggs.

The danger of centipedes for people

Some types of centipedes can be dangerous to humans because they bite. The bite can be very painful, besides, it provokes swelling, swelling, weakness, and can cause fever. And in severe cases, a centipede bite can be fatal. For young children, centipede bites are the most dangerous.

Centipede class insect? photo description structure, animal? home, giant, bathroom

Latin name Myriapoda

General characteristics of centipedes

Centipedes- a large group of exclusively terrestrial arthropods, numbering about 10,500 species, most of which are found in southern latitudes and the tropics.

All centipedes live in places with high air humidity (in the forest floor, under stones, in soil and rotten stumps), since they lack, with few exceptions, a protective, waterproof, waxy layer - the epicuticle (therefore they are not protected from drying out) . The body sizes of these animals vary from very small to large. So, soil Pauropoda do not exceed 2 mm in length, and giant centipedes reach 26.5 cm, tropical bipedals (Graphidostreptus gigas) are even larger - 28 cm.

Millipedes are characterized by the dismemberment of the body, usually into a large number of segments. Most centipedes are characterized by anamorphosis, or the formation of new segments with each molt of the animal. In primitive forms (Julidae) the number of segments is variable.

External structure

The body of centipedes is divided into a clearly distinct head and body, consisting of more or less segments. The head is the result of a complete fusion of the acron and four trunk segments. It typically bears a pair of antennae and three pairs of limbs. There are significant differences in the structure of the head limbs of different groups (labopods and bipedals). In labiopods, the head limbs are similar to those of insects.

The jointed antennae of centipedes are related to the acron and correspond to those of insects. They are homologous to crayfish antennules and are not limbs. The first segment of the head does not bear limbs. It is called intercalary or intercalary. Thus, in centipedes, the first pair of head limbs, homologous to crayfish antennae, was reduced. On the second head segment there is a pair of chewing plates with jagged edges - mandibles, or mandibles. Next is a pair of mandibles, or first maxillae, followed by a pair of second maxillae. In the second maxillae, the main segments fuse together, forming, as in insects, the lower lip.

In bipedals (kivsyak), the oral apparatus is distinguished by the absence of the first pair of maxillae, while the maxillae of the second pair have merged into an unpaired plate of complex structure, the so-called gnathochilaria.

The number of body segments in different species of blanipods is very different, from 10 to 170 or more. Species with a large number of segments are characterized by a large homonomy of their structure. Some centipedes (scolopendra, flycatcher) have 25-27 segments more or less homonomous, with the exception of the posterior ones. Others exhibit a peculiar heteronomy. Thus, in a drupe (19 segments), as seen in Figure 250, longer segments alternate with shorter ones.

The limbs of centipedes are typical single-branched walking jointed legs, in the most complete case consisting of eight segments ending in a claw. Each segment, except for the anal segment, corresponds to a pair of well-articulated, well-developed walking legs. Some of these limbs are heavily modified. Thus, the legs of the first trunk segment are turned into strong mandibles, which serve as the trapping part of the oral apparatus. These limbs are hook-shaped, with very sharp claw-like segments. Driven by strong muscles, they are a device for grasping and killing prey. Inside each mandible is placed a poisonous gland whose duct opens near the end of the claw. The vasal segments of both mandibles merged into a wide unpaired plate. These limbs gave rise to the name of the subclass - lipopods. The limbs of the posterior segments may be changed into genital appendages or into elongated tactile limbs (in the drupe).

In biparpods, the limbs of the trunk segments are arranged rather uniformly. The first segment of the body is devoid of limbs. The second, third, and fourth segments each bear one pair of legs, and starting from the fifth, all trunk segments have two pairs of legs. Thus, in biparpods, the first four (including legless) segments could be called thoracic, in contrast to the rest of the abdominal ones.

The presence of two pairs of limbs on each segment of bipedals is explained by the fact. that each centipede segment is formed by the fusion of two adjacent segments. This is proved by the formation of segments and limbs in ontogenesis, as well as by a number of anatomical facts. So, on segments bearing two pairs of legs, there are two pairs of stigmas, two paired nerve ganglia, and two pairs of ostia in the chamber of the heart.

Digestive system

The digestive system consists of an almost straight tube-shaped intestine, most of which is the midgut. Centipedes, unlike crustaceans and arachnids, do not have a liver. There are one or two pairs of salivary glands.

Respiratory system

Most centipedes usually have one pair of respiratory stigmas on each segment or through a segment, and bipedals have two pairs of stigmas on almost all segments. In the latter, the stigmas lead into bundles of isolated thin, unbranched tracheae. The tracheal system is highly developed in the baloney. Stigmas lead to large tracheal trunks, which branch quite strongly, breaking up into small tracheas. The latter are suitable for various organs. The wall of the trachea is formed by a single-layered epithelium, lined from the inside with chitin, with a characteristic spiral thickening that counteracts the collapse of the walls of the trachea.

Circulatory system

Centipedes have an open circulatory system that consists of a tubular heart and a fairly developed network of arterial vessels. The heart is located in the dorsal region of the mixocoel, incompletely separated from the rest of the body. It consists of metamerically arranged chambers, which each have one pair of ostia. Not only ostia are equipped with a valve mechanism, but also narrowed places between the heart chambers. The heart is suspended from the dorsal wall of the body on special strands and contracts sequentially from the posterior end to the anterior. Special pterygoid muscles are attached directly under the heart. The vessels departing from the heart are developed differently in different species of centipedes.

excretory system

The organs of excretion in centipedes are one or two pairs of unbranched Malpighian vessels lying in the mixocele along the entire body and flowing into the intestine at the border between the middle and hindgut.

In addition, the excretory function is performed by an organ characteristic of centipedes (also for insects) - the fat body. The fat body is an organ of indefinite shape, consisting of many cells in which the accumulation of reserve nutrients in the form of fat droplets occurs. These cells also perform an excretory function, accumulating uric acid in the form of nodules.

Nervous system

In centipedes, the nervous system is represented by the supraesophageal ganglion, which forms the brain, peripharyngeal connectives, and the ventral nerve cord.

sense organs

Centipedes have organs of touch, smell and sight. The organs of touch are the antennae, and in some centipedes (drupes) the limbs of the back of the body. The smallest olfactory tubes are also concentrated on the antennae.

Some centipedes have single eyes of a relatively simple structure. Others (drupes) have many ocelli, they are collected in two groups, giving the impression of compound eyes. However, ommatidia are rarely located, not adjacent to each other. Finally, some centipedes (flycatchers) have typical compound eyes.

reproductive system

All centipedes have separate sexes. In balopods, the male and female genital organs open with a genital opening on the predural segment. The extremities of this segment in males are changed into a copulatory organ. In bipedals and other centipedes, the paired genital openings open on the third trunk segment. Fertilized eggs are laid more often in small pits. Some centipedes, such as our common drupe, after laying their eggs, curl up around a bunch of eggs, guarding them. In this state, they can usually be found in the summer under stones.

Development

Millipede eggs are very rich in yolk (centrolecithal type), their crushing is superficial. Postembryonic development in different groups of centipedes takes place in different ways. In some centipedes, young animals emerge from the egg, not yet having the full number of segments. Their number increases in the future with each molt. New segments are formed in front of the last anal segment. For example, in some barnacles, a young animal hatches from an egg with seven trunk segments that carry 7 pairs of legs. In bipods, the "larva" has 7 segments, but only three segments have limbs. This type of postembryonic development, when the formation of new segments continues in the growth zone between the penultimate and anal segments, is called anamorphosis. In nods (Julidae), the number of body segments is indefinite, since their increase continues throughout life (lifelong anamorphosis).

For all arthropods and other metameric animals with a predal zone of growth (primarily annelids), according to V. N. Beklemishev, “lifelong anamorphosis and an indefinitely large number of segments are purely morphologically undeniably primary.” This does not exclude in some cases secondary elongation of the body of animals.

In some labiopods (scolopendra, geophiles, etc.), development proceeds differently. A young animal emerges from the egg already with a full number of segments, and postembryonic development in this case is reduced to growth, a change in the shape of the segments and the details of their structure. This development is called direct.

Classification

Centipedes do not represent a sufficiently monolithic class, but are divided into groups so different from one another that many zoologists divide the centipede class into four different classes. We will consider these groups in the rank of subclasses. The millipede class (Myriapoda) is divided into four subclasses, two of which are of the greatest importance: 1. Diplopoda; 2. Chilopoda.

Subclass Bipods (Diplopoda)

This most numerous group includes about 7200 species of moisture-loving centipedes living in the forest floor, under fallen trees and in stumps. They, unlike some barnacles, rarely climb tree trunks. Bipeds feed on rotting leaves and decaying wood. Due to their abundance, they are of significant benefit by participating in the mineralization of organic remains: forest litter, deadwood, etc. slow movements. Nods, disturbed by something, curl up into a spiral.

Many bipedals have venom glands on the lateral sections of the dorsal scutes. In some tropical species of centipedes, the poison contains hydrocyanic acid, it was once used by the Indians to poison arrows.

Subclass Centipedes Chilopoda

A large group (2800 species) of blanipods is represented by active predators, in contrast to all other centipedes that feed on decaying or living parts of plants. The transformation of the first pair of their trunk legs into grasping mandibles, equipped with a poisonous gland, is associated with the predation of the balones.

Goonopods, like all centipedes, lead a predominantly secretive nocturnal lifestyle. During the day they should be looked for under fallen leaves and stones, in hollows and under the bark of dead trees, etc. In our fauna, a small (up to 3.2 cm long) drupe centipede (Lithobius forficatus) is common. She has 16 pairs of legs, of which the hind legs are greatly elongated and perform a tactile function. There are rather long antennae on the head.

In the Crimea, the Caucasus and Central Asia in human habitation (houses) there are small centipedes with very long limbs, which are called flycatchers. Eyeless centipedes geophiles with a very large number of segments (more than 170) live in the soil, sometimes deep from the surface. Geophilus longicornis is common in our fauna.

In the tropics, the largest of the balones, the poisonous centipedes, are widely represented. In the Crimea, the Caucasus and Moldova, there is a ringed scolopendra (Scolopendra cingulata), reaching a length of 10-17 cm. Its bite causes not only severe swelling in a person, but also general poisoning. The temperature rises to 38-39°C, general weakness and headache are observed. However, all painful phenomena disappear on their own in 1-2 days. The bite of the Brazilian giant centipede (S. gigas) also does not appear to be fatal.

Gallery

Scolopendra is an armored arthropod, which belongs to the genus of labiopods, also called Chilopoda or arthropod centipedes. It lives in a variety of climatic conditions, but prefers a tropical climate. Various individuals can live in the desert, mountains, forests, limestone caves and many other places. In those regions where it is not too warm, the centipede grows in size from a centimeter to ten, but in the tropics an individual can reach 28 centimeters in length!

These insects live alone. The legs of the insect end in poisonous spikes. That is precisely why centipede, running through the human body, can cause irritation. The head includes a head plate with eyes, a pair of antennae, and venomous mandibles. They are located under the head, but at the same time they are part of the body. The front limbs of the insect are transformed into fangs, with their help the centipede captures the victim. Each body segment has a pair of legs. The last legs are used for reproduction or as an anchor when capturing large prey.

The color of scolopendra can be different, depending on the species, these are gray, brown, with a yellowish tinge. Partially, the insect can be with a greenish, orange and blue tint. With age, the individual can change color, pigmentation depends on the habitat.

Scolopendra is soft-bodied and compacted in the back. The plate body is connected by a flexible membrane. The exoskeleton is made of chitin. This layer is inanimate and does not grow. To continue growing, the centipede must undergo a molt.

Scolopendra - an insect or not?

Scientifically: no, centipede is not an insect. It belongs to the animal kingdom, a genus of centipedes from the scolopendra order.

• Kingdom: Animals;
• Type: Arthropod;
• Class: Papillons;
• Squad: Scolopendra.

Scientific classification of centipedes - Wikipedia

Species of skolopendra and their habitat

There are a lot of varieties of skolopendra, almost all of them are similar in body structure and a large number of legs. Consider the most famous species of centipedes and their habitat.

Common Flycatcher (Scootigera)

Scolopendra scutigera is a centipede from the order Scutigeromorpha of the class of balopods. The adult is 35 to 60 mm long, yellow-gray in color with long striped legs.

Feeds on small insects. It lives in Southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. They are also found on the territory of Ukraine, the Caucasus, Moldova, Kazakhstan, in the south of Russia.

The natural habitat of the common flycatcher is dry fallen leaves. With the onset of a cold snap, it begins to seek refuge, thus it can end up in an apartment, especially in wet rooms - a bathroom, a toilet, a basement.

Scolopendra scutigera - common flycatcher eats a fly on a person's hand

It is practically safe for humans, as it cannot bite through the skin of humans and pets. The maximum harm that scolopendra scootiger can bring to a person is redness and swelling of the skin, its bite is comparable to the sting of one wasp.

It also does not harm open food and furniture, and in some regions it is generally considered a rare useful species of arthropods that cannot be killed. Therefore, do not be afraid if you meet her at home, carefully pick up with a net or other tool and send her to "walk" out the window.

Giant centipede - the largest centipede

The giant centipede lives most often in the west and north of South America, on the islands of Trinidad and Jamaica. They feed on insects, just like other species of centipedes, but there are cases when giant centipedes attacked lizards, toads, mice and even birds.

The strongly built body consists of 21-23 brown or red segments with a pair of bright yellow legs. Poison jaws can harm a person in the form of swelling, redness and severe pain, occasionally fever, weakness and fever. For an adult, the poison of a giant centipede is not fatal. The poison consists of the following substances: contains acetylcholine, serotonin, histamine, lecithin, thermolysins, hyaluronidase.

Ringed scolopendra (Crimean)

Ringed scolopendra is the most common centipede species in Southern Europe and the countries of the Mediterranean basin, including Italy, Spain, France, Turkey, Greece, Crimea. He also lives in Northern Arfika: in Egypt, Tunisia, Libya, Morocco.

It is inferior in size to the giant scolopendra, reaching an average of 10-15 cm. The poison of the ringed scolopendra is also not as toxic as that of the "big brother". A very fast and agile predator, it preys on almost all living creatures that are smaller than it in size - insects, lizards.

Chinese red centipede

The Chinese red centipede lives in East Asia and Australia. Unlike many other types of centipedes, it is less aggressive and more social, can live in peace with relatives in communities (most species of centipedes are single).

In Chinese medicine, this type of scolopendra is used to speed up the healing of skin diseases and injuries.

California centipede

The California centipede lives in the dry regions of the United States and Mexico, although other centipede species prefer wetter habitats.

A bite from a Californian scolopendra or touching its legs when disturbed can cause a person a small amount of harm in the form of inflammation. There have even been cases of rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure after being bitten by this centipede.

Scolopendra Lucas

Scolopendra Lucas, like the ringed one, lives in the southern part of Europe. Distinctive features are a heart-shaped head and a rusty color. The harm from contact with it is identical to most other centipedes.

Skolopendra lifestyle: nutrition, reproduction

Like many other centipedes, centipedes lead a real predatory lifestyle. In the wild, they feed on small invertebrates, and in some cases, large individuals can eat mice, snakes, lizards, frogs, and even bats!

Reproduction of skolopendra begins from the second year of life. In males, a cocoon with seminal fluid, the spermatophore, forms in the last ring of the body. At the time of mating, the female draws fluid into her genitals, and after a few months she lays eggs. Up to 120 larvae can be present in one clutch, not all of which survive. After a few months, the eggs hatch into larvae.

How long does a scorpion live?

The life expectancy of a centipede is about 7 years, which is a lot for a representative of arthropods, so they can be considered centenarians.

Scolopendra bite: what does it look like, is it dangerous for humans?

The bright color of the centipede indicates the poisonousness of the insect. An insect bite can be compared to a wasp or bee sting. According to the strength of pain, one scolopendra bite can be equated to 20 bee stings. The poison does not lead to the death of a person, but the danger of death still exists if a person is allergic to scolopendra venom.

In the photo - a trace of a scolopendra bite

There are many opinions in the literature about the actual size of centipedes. According to known facts, the largest centipede is in Brazil. Its body length is 33 cm. Many argue that the bite of a giant centipede is fatal, but this is only known from words.

In Russia, you can meet scolopendra only in the regions - the Caucasus, the Rostov Region, the Krasnodar Territory, and the Crimea. There are small individuals - up to 14 cm, mostly ringed centipede, which goes hunting at night and is not particularly aggressive towards humans. You can meet her quite by accident, for example, in a tent, in a sleeping bag or when collecting firewood for a fire, in such cases, the scolopendra may begin to defend itself and bite you, its plans did not include a targeted attack on a person.

What to do if bitten by a centipede?

A scolopendra sting is comparable to stinging 20 bees at the same time, it is quite painful. The scolopendra venom acts immediately, leaving the skin red and sore.

It is best to avoid biting and touching human skin with the legs of the centipede, but if this happens, follow these rules:

• wash the place of contact or damage with soap and water, disinfect with alcohol;
• apply a sterile bandage for 12 hours, then change to a fresh one;
• give the victim plenty of clean water to drink;
• provide peace;
• do not take alcoholic beverages, they speed up the metabolism and the action of the poison;
• seek help from a doctor.

Pregnant women, children, the elderly, allergy sufferers, heart patients should urgently go to the hospital, otherwise the outcome can be tragic, even fatal.

Remember, skolopendra itself does not attack a person. If she notices you, she will rather try to carry all her legs. But if she accidentally crawls under your clothes or into a tent, and you scare her, then in self-defense she will bite you.

Home maintenance of scolopendra

For breeding centipedes in captivity, terrariums are used. This is a very mobile insect and at the same time aggressive. They live in captivity for up to seven years. If there is no experience in breeding centipedes, then it is best to study the literature and investigate all the safety precautions for their maintenance and breeding.

Scolopendra has a flexible pleural zone. Thanks to this fact, it can squeeze into the smallest cracks in any rocks and soil in order to hide securely. This centipede is the biggest specialist in escaping. When choosing a terrarium, pay attention to the length, width and height. Read breeding guides there is the most complete information about such necessary things as buying a terrarium for centipedes. The soil must be moist and suitable for burrowing. Humidity should be sufficient, but should not be too wet.

Scolopendra are aggressive, but if you add crustacean wood lice, they will not touch them, because they do not perceive them as food.

Basically, for all types of centipedes, a temperature of 27 degrees is suitable. If you have a particular species, consult with a specialist about the temperature and conditions of detention.

At home, it is advisable to feed the centipede with grasshoppers or mealworms, it is not recommended to overfeed. They are usually fed 1-2 times a week. Skolopendra up to 15 cm in size will be satisfied with 5 crickets. Lack of appetite may mean that the insect is not hungry or is preparing for the next molt.