Archispirostreptus gigas, or African giant centipede, is one of the largest centipedes, growing up to 38.5 centimeters in length, 67 mm in circumference. The number of legs of a kivsyak is about 256, although this number changes with each molt, therefore it may vary depending on each individual individual. We can say that they have from 100 to 400 paws.
Let's find out more about it …
Giant kivsaki are widespread in the lowlands of East Africa, from Mozambique to Kenya, but rarely rise in the mountains above 1000 meters. Giant kivsaki are mostly found in forests, but can also be found in coastal habitats that contain at least a few trees. These kivsaki are known in the Zulu language as amashongololo. In addition, the species is a common fauna in southern Arabia, especially in Dhofar.
Giant black kivsyaki. Often kept as pets. In general, giant centipedes have a lifespan of around 5-7 years. Giant kivsiacs have two main defense mechanisms if they feel threatened: twisting into a tight spiral, exposing only a rigid exoskeleton, and secreting irritating fluid from pores on their body. This liquid can be harmful if it gets into the eyes or mouth.
The giant centipede does not like to get out into the fresh air and usually avoids light. Therefore, she chose to adapt to her favorite darkness, the centipede is black.
Promotional video:
It is strange that centipedes can burrow into the ground with the help of their powerful and numerous paws, but they drown under water. Because they breathe through the holes in the body and cannot close them.
And also about some of the features of centipedes. They have from 100 to 400 paws. The reason for such a large number lies in the fact that after each molt, a number of body segments are added to the centipede - along with the paws.
Many people appreciate and love the giant centipede. She is often even kept as a pet.
Giant centipedes treat each other well, so you can keep more than one in the house. If a male and a female come across, very soon you will have to nurse the millipede babies.
The estimated lifespan of the giant centipede is approximately 7-10 years.
In captivity, giant centipedes feed on vegetables and fruits. They feed on completely ordinary things - apples, melons, tomatoes. Most of all they love cucumbers. They prefer slightly rotten foods. Fallen leaves are required in the diet. If, of course, they are outside the window. But feeding millipedes with leaves from a herbarium is not good.
Centipedes, despite the fact that outwardly they do not in any way resemble cats, dogs, or even birds with fish and mice, nevertheless, are easily tamed. Become quite obedient.
But if you are not friends with centipedes, this case is also provided. The giant centipede's defense system operates in two main modes. In the event of a threat, the centipede can curl up into a spiral, leaving only a tough tunic outside, or it can act according to the principle "the best defense is an attack" - that is, splashing a poisonous, irritating skin liquid. So the burn is easy to survive. Problems can only arise if the liquid gets into the eyes or mouth.