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Facts About Centipedes

Centipedes are fast moving, agile, nocturnal animals. They are rarely seen by humans due to their nocturnal activity and the speed with which they move.

While some centipedes have compound eyes containing as many as 200 optical units, others do not have eyes. All centipedes have very poor eyesight and track their prey through the use of touch.

Provided that they are able to escape from predators and that their surroundings are conducive to survival, centipedes can live as long as six years. Among arthropods, this lifespan is considered long.

The Geophilidae centipede can have as many as 173 pairs of legs, but most centipedes have only 15 to 30 pairs, each of which is attached to a single segment of the body. 

Centipedes are venomous. Their venom allows them to attack prey and defend themselves against predators and other natural enemies. 5-hydroxytryptamine has been found in most centipede venom and cytolisins, which can break down cell walls, is present in some centipede species found in North America. Centipede venom is not fatal to humans, although some individuals may be allergic to it and will experience more severe symptoms.

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Facts About Centipedes