giant African millipede
Quick Summary
The giant African millipede (Archispirostreptus gigas) is the largest known species of millipede, an arthropod belonging to the class Diplopoda. Native to subtropical Africa, this millipede can reach lengths of up to 280 mm (11 inches). Millipedes are characterized by having two pairs of legs on most of their body segments, a feature that distinguishes them from centipedes. They primarily consume decaying plant matter and play a role in decomposition. When threatened, millipedes typically coil up and may secrete a toxic liquid or gas as a defense mechanism.1
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