⚠️ Note: This animal is located at an external location outside Belgium.
the Edentistoma hallimaden (formerly classified as E. octosulcatum), an exceptionally rare and visually unique centipede. Although it strongly resembles a millipede in appearance and movement, it is a formidable predator.
This species is considered a “living fossil” in the hobby due to its armor-like segments with seven longitudinal keels.
1. housing & setup
Enclosure type: Use a horizontally oriented enclosure with a thick layer of substrate. Because they live partly fossorial (burrowing), a substrate depth of at least 10-15 cm is essential.
Substrate: A moisture-retaining mix of coconut fiber, unfertilized potting soil, and plenty of dead wood/leaves. In captivity, it has been observed that they are very vigorous; ensure a tightly fitting lid.
Framework: Provide hiding places under flat pieces of cork or wood.
2. climate
Temperature: Keep them tropically warm, between 24°C and 28°C.
Humidity: Very high (80%+). The substrate must remain constantly moist (not soaking wet). Spray regularly to mimic the rainforest environment.
3. food
Diet: They are carnivores.
Feeder animals: Offer small millipedes in captivity
Behavior: They move very slowly (approx. 20 mm/s), which is unusual for a centipede.
4. Safety and Behavior
Toxicity: Caution: they have powerful venomous fangs (forcipules). A bite is extremely painful and can lead to swelling and fever.
Defense: When disturbed, they often roll onto their side in a spiral instead of attacking immediately.
Rarity: These animals are often wild-caught from Borneo; exercise extreme care with their fragile needs in captivity.
