American Giant Millipede - Narceus americanus

 Care Guide for American Giant Millipede (Narceus americanus)

Enclosure:

Use a glass or plastic terrarium with a secure lid to prevent escapes. Ensure good ventilation, while also being able to trap in some humidity. Size of enclosure depends on amount of Millipedes and their size. I personally use 5-10 Gal tank for a group of 10+ adults. Try to Aim for around 1 Gal per Large individual. N.americanus are social and can be kept in groups. Ensure adequate space and hiding spots to prevent aggression.

Add hiding spots like cork bark, pieces of wood, etc. Millipedes enjoy burrowing, so provide plenty of substrate. Place pieces of bark or vertically-oriented branches for climbing.

Substrate:

Provide a substrate of at least 5 inches in depth. Millipedes spend most of their time underground, so providing them good amount of depth is absolutely necessary! A mix of Organic soil, peat moss, and decomposing leaves works very well. Flake soil is also an Amazing option if you have access to it. Maintain substrate moisture by spraying it lightly with water. Keep it damp but not waterlogged.

Temperature and Humidity:

Keep the enclosure between 70-80°F (21-27°C) during the day. Use an side-tank heating pad if needed, but make sure to maintain a temperature gradient. Maintain humidity levels around 70-80%. Mist the enclosure regularly, ensuring it doesn't become too wet or water logged.

Diet:

Feeding:

Provide a diet rich in decaying organic matter. Offer a variety of vegetables, fruits, and leaves such as lettuce, carrots, apples, and oak leaves. Protein in the form of Fish Flakes, Dog Food, Bee Pollen etc. Calcium supplements (cuttlebone) can be added occasionally. Feed your millipedes 2-3 times a week. Remove uneaten food promptly to prevent mold.

Lighting:

Millipedes are nocturnal, so they don't require special lighting.
Exposure to natural daylight is beneficial but avoid direct sunlight on the enclosure.