Desert Millipedes

Desert Millipedes: The Sonoran Scavenger

The Desert Millipede (Orthoporus ornatus), often called the Giant Sonoran Desert Millipede or Texas Gold Millipede, is a robust and popular choice for a beginner-friendly invertebrate pet. Native to the arid regions of the Southwestern US and Mexico, this species is known for its impressive size, striking coloration, and relative tolerance for drier conditions compared to tropical millipedes.

Key Species Information (Orthoporus ornatus):

 * Appearance: They are one of the longest millipedes native to the U.S., reaching lengths of 4 to 6 inches. Their body is typically dark (black or brown) with striking gold, yellow, or tan banding along the segments, giving them a handsome, armored look.

 * Temperament: They are docile, slow-moving, and easily handled, making them excellent educational or display pets.

 * Defense: When disturbed, they will curl into a tight spiral. They may also secrete a mild, irritating fluid. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling to avoid transferring the secretions to your eyes or mouth.

 * Lifespan: With proper care, they can live for several years, often up to 10 years in captivity.

Desert Millipede Care Guide

Despite their name, "desert" millipedes still require high humidity and should not be kept in a bone-dry setup. They burrow deep into the substrate to find moisture, replicating their natural behavior in the desert soil.

| Category | Requirement | Notes |

|---|---|---|

| Enclosure | 10-gallon aquarium minimum for 1-2 adults; secure, well-ventilated lid. | Provide more horizontal space than height. Ventilation is key for this species. |

| Substrate | Deep (at least 3-4 inches, or as deep as the millipede is long). | Use a mixture of organic topsoil, sand (play sand), decaying leaves (oak, maple), and soft rotting wood. Avoid pure coco coir as it lacks nutritional value and can cause impaction. |

| Temperature | 72^\circ\text{F} - 78^\circ\text{F} (22^\circ\text{C} - 25^\circ\text{C}). | Room temperature is often sufficient, but supplemental heat (side-mounted heat pad) may be needed if your room is cooler. |

| Humidity | 60\% - 80\% (Higher than you might expect for a "desert" animal). | Maintain moisture by pouring water into a section of the substrate to create a moist lower layer. The surface should be allowed to dry slightly. Avoid stagnant, swampy conditions. |

| Diet | Detritivore - Majority of diet comes from the substrate itself. | Supplement with fresh organic vegetables (cucumber, squash, carrots) and small amounts of soft fruit. Provide a protein source (fish flakes, dog/cat kibble) and a source of calcium (cuttlebone pieces) regularly. |

| Habitat Decor | Cork bark, branches, and logs are essential. | They enjoy climbing and require numerous hiding spots to feel secure and to facilitate molting. |

Important: Desert Millipedes spend much of their time burrowed. Do not disturb a millipede that has burrowed—it is likely molting and is extremely fragile during this time. Leave it alone until it re-emerges.