The American Giant Millipede is one of North America's largest arthropods, reaching 4 inches, with a cylindrical dark gray body banded with pink-orange segment margins. Unlike centipedes, it is harmless and slow-moving, feeding on decomposing plant matter. When threatened it coils into a tight spiral and secretes benzoquinones — chemicals that can temporarily stain skin yellow.
Habitat
Deciduous forests under logs and leaf litter
Diet
Adults: decaying wood, leaves, and organic matter
How common
Common
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