Scarlet Millipede — Introduction & Overview

The Scarlet Millipede (Trigoniulus corallinus) is basically a living Twizzler that wandered out of a tropical compost heap and decided to major in chill vibes. MYCO-EMPORIUMS love this species because it’s brightly colored, slow-moving, and behaves like a tiny noodle janitor—cleaning up decaying matter while minding its own cosmic business. Under soft light it glows with warm coral tones, and when undisturbed it forms elegant spirals as if drafting secret geometric messages to the universe. A perfect display bioform for keepers who enjoy low-stress, low-noise roommates.

Why Keep This Species

Brilliant coral-red coloration and smooth, glossy appearance
Exceptionally hardy decomposer; low maintenance
Great for classrooms and new Myco-Patrons—fun behaviors, easy observation

Keeper Profile

Handling stance: hands-off; fragile and stress-prone to touch
Climate targets: warm 72–80°F, humid 70–85%
Habitat: deep substrate, leaf litter, plenty of hides, moderate ventilation

Keeper’s Summary

Provide a terrestrial enclosure with deep, nutrient-rich substrate and layers of leaf litter. Maintain warm, humid conditions with regular misting and excellent hydration options via moist microhabitats rather than open water dishes. Feed a mix of decaying leaves, vegetables, and supplemental calcium sources. Handle rarely (preferably never) and perform spot cleaning weekly with full substrate refreshes every few months.

🐾 Scarlet Millipede — Trigoniulus corallinus

Common Name(s): Scarlet Millipede, Red Millipede, Rusty Millipede
Scientific Name: Trigoniulus corallinus
Native To: South & Southeast Asia — humid forests, compost-rich soils, and leaf-litter habitats
Adult Size: 2–4 in (5–10 cm); slender, smooth-bodied
Life Span: Typically 2–3 years in captivity with stable humidity and deep substrate
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly; hardy detritivore requiring consistent moisture

🌟 View Available Specimens 🌟

Characteristics & Temperament

Picture Trigoniulus corallinus as the galaxy’s tiniest subway train: smooth, shiny, and determined to commute through every leaf pile in your enclosure with cosmic purpose. MYCO-PATRONS often describe it as a “quiet red comet” cruising through the mulch—never in a rush, never causing drama, just vibing like it’s listening to lo-fi beats in eight dimensions. When threatened, it curls into a perfect spiral as if buffering its next move, and when relaxed, it wanders like a miniature philosopher contemplating the mysteries of decomposition. A gentle creature with zero chaos-energy—unless you count the comedic moment when it slowly walks off-camera like a confused extra in a sci-fi sitcom.

Appearance

Coloration / Pattern: Deep coral-red to brick orange body with glossy, uniform segments and subtle dark banding.
Build / Form: Slender cylindrical millipede with 30+ segments and delicate, rapid-moving legs that create a “wave” motion.
Light Response: Mild reflective sheen; no strong UV fluorescence, though segments can appear brighter under blue/UV-safe LEDs.

Temperament

Baseline: Calm and shy. Prefers hiding under leaf litter during the day and exploring at night.
Response to Disturbance: Gently curls into a spiral; may release mild defensive odors but never bites.
Feeding Style: Slow detritivore grazer; most active in the evening and after misting.

Social Housing

Communal-friendly. Multiple individuals coexist peacefully with abundant substrate and food. Provide numerous hides and thick litter layers. Default recommendation: Communal groups acceptable and encouraged.

Quick Traits

UV Responsive: No Most Active: Nocturnal Handability: Do Not Handle

Keeper Notes

Stress Signs: Excessive curling, refusal to move, persistent surface roaming.
Confidence Builders: Deep substrate, steady humidity, abundant leaf litter.
Display Tips: Red or dim night lighting enhances activity visibility.

Care Requirements

Core setup and environmental targets to keep Trigoniulus corallinus thriving.

Enclosure Setup

Type: Terrestrial/Burrowing.
Minimum Size: 5–10 gallon for small groups.
Safety: Secure lid, moderate ventilation, no sharp décor.

Size: 12″×12″×12″ minimum
Lid: Mesh or perforated locking lid
Hides: Cork bark, leaf piles, rotting wood
Enrichment: Bark tubes, soft logs, deep substrate gradients

Substrate

Blend: Soil, coconut fiber, decayed leaves, rotten wood.
Depth: 4–6 in (10–15 cm).
Purpose: Burrowing, moisture retention, natural feeding layer.